Canada has the technological ability to build its own rocket to launch small satellites, a top priority for future research at the Defence Department and a capability also being studied at the Canadian Space Agency.
Canada now relies on other countries, such as the U.S., India and Russia, to launch its spacecraft into orbit, but both the Defence Department and the space agency are looking at the option of constructing a Canadian-made launcher.
DND’s science organization, Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC) is examining what might be needed for a small rocket as well as different possible mission scenarios that could be undertaken.
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In addition, a 2009 briefing package produced by the military’s Chief of Force Development noted that the development of a launcher for small satellites is a key focus area for DND’s future research and development.
The CSA is also studying the possibility and is co-operating with DRDC’s scientists.
“One option currently being evaluated relates to the development of an indigenous launch capability for certain classes of satellites,” Julie Simard, a spokeswoman for the Canadian Space Agency noted in an e-mail.
CSA has already done two studies on whether such a venture is possible. “Those studies concluded that, although challenging, developing a launch capability in Canada was technically feasible,” Simard noted. “At this time, further analysis are required to thoroughly assess the implication of undertaking this activity in Canada. Should these analysis prove favorable, funds would be sought to initiate this development.”
Kevin Shortt, president of the Canadian Space Society, said the idea of a made-in-Canada capability to launch satellites and other spacecraft into orbit has been talked about for decades. While others have argued that Canada doesn’t launch enough spacecraft to warrant such a capability, Shortt said he believes there is an opportunity to develop a niche market to sell launches for small satellites to other nations. Canada’s geographic location is ideal for particular launches such as for polar orbits, he added.
Shortt pointed out that sub-orbital launches used to take place at Churchill, Man., and that site could be used for orbital launches.
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