MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates-designed RADARSAT-2 features state-of-the-art synthetic aperture radar technology and supports all the existing RADARSAT-1 beam modes, while offering many new capabilities, including the ability to acquire images to the left and right of the satellite. In partnership with Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd., MDA will study the feasibility of an advanced payload for a potential future mission that would enhance the flexibility of the next generation of satellite communications. (photo from MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd.)
On May 26, the Hon. James Moore, minister of industry, announced that two Canadian space firms will be conducting concept studies for potential Canada-Israel space missions. The Canadian Space Agency (CSA) and the Israel Space Agency (ISA) seek to develop advanced applications in satellite communications and position both the Canadian and Israeli space sector to play a significant role in this growing global market.
MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. will study the feasibility of an advanced payload for a potential future mission that would enhance the flexibility of next-generation satellite communications. The firm will conduct this study in partnership with Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd. (IAI).
COM DEV International Ltd., with exactEarth, will evaluate the feasibility of a potential Israel-Canada advanced radio and thermal-location µ (micro) satellite (ICARUS) mission. ICARUS would demonstrate a new, low-cost nano-satellite constellation that would use a combination of receivers to locate maritime vessels, thus improving maritime awareness, safety and security. The potential ICARUS mission would be undertaken in collaboration with IAI and Elbit Systems Electro-Optics Elop Ltd.
A memorandum of understanding between CSA and ISA, signed in 2005 and amended in 2014, allows the agencies, private sectors and academia in both countries to cooperate in joint projects or research activities. Each Canadian firm will receive $300,000 to undertake their concept study.