Heraldry
 In
1992, the art of heraldry reached new heights when six copies of the Canadian Space Agency's newly
granted coat of arms went into space. Dr. Roberta Bondar took them on her voyage on the space
shuttle Discovery.
The Canadian Space Agency is one of many organizations that have an official coat of arms granted
by the Canadian Heraldic Authority. Coats of arms are a unique combination of symbols carefully
chosen to represent particular characteristics of the recipient. The Governor General is the head
of the Canadian Heraldic Authority, whose staff -- called heralds -- create coats of arms in Canada.
Coats of arms honour people and groups who have contributed to Canada. They reflect our country's
rich history and geography, as well as the character and aspirations of Canadians.
The Governor General may personally present new coats of arms and sign the granting documents
at a formal ceremony. Only documents the Governor General has personally presented bear her signature.
Others are signed by officers of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.
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