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Book 1 – CSA Overview and Hot Issues

Table of Contents

  1. CSA Overview
  2. First 100 Days – Hot Issues, Key Decisions, Engagements, Events

1. CSA Overview

1.1 Welcome to the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) – Logistics Overview

Welcome to the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) and congratulations on your appointment as President! We are excited to welcome you to our organization.

Prior to your first day, you will be contacted regarding administrative details such as how to collect your CSA laptop and phone and access to the CSA's networks and systems.

The CSA is currently operating under special protocols due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The majority of staff are presently working remotely, except for those deemed critical to space or building operations. The use of non-medical face coverings (NMFC) is now required within CSA facilities where physical distancing of two metres (2 m) is not possible. A full briefing on the CSA's COVID-19 posture and impacts will be offered shortly after your arrival.

Orientation to HQ

The CSA headquarters are located at 6767 Route de l'Aéroport, Borough of Saint-Hubert, Longueuil, QC J3Y 8Y9.

Presenting ID to the Commissionaires at the parking lot gate is required for all visitors and new staff until an access card is provided.

Someone will meet you at the guard hut and then reception to facilitate your entry to the building and help orient you.

Map/Parking

Longueuil – you have designated parking near the front entrance of the CSA. The large round atrium is the front entrance.

Google Maps satellite photo of CSA headquarters and parking lot indicating where the CSA President's parking spot is located. (Credit: Google)

Gatineau – the Gatineau office is located at 30 rue Victoria. The entrance to the underground parkade is also located on rue Victoria near the intersection with rue Kent. Your designated parking spot is on the first level of the parkade.

Map of the parking garage at 30 rue Victoria, Gatineau, with arrows and a circle indicating where and how to access the President's parking spot. (Credit: CSA)

Text version - of Gatineau parking garage legend

Parking inventory legend

  • 7 Charging Stations
  • Orange – Canadian Space Agency 2/121
  • Dark Blue – Election Canada 2/274
  • Green – Park Canada 1/481
  • Light Blue - Off. Privacy Commissioner 1/164
  • Red - Off. Information Commissioner 1/405
  • Yellow - Off. Commissioner Off. Language 1/1054
  • Total Government - 8

Building Access (HQ)

Access Cards
  • The cards are CSA property and must be returned to the Security Service Office when an employee leaves the CSA. If one of these cards is lost or stolen, the Security Service must be notified immediately.
  • It is forbidden to loan your card to another person or to allow another person to access an area with your card.
  • The access card must be worn visibly at all times that the employee is in the building.
Forgotten Card
  • A person forgetting their access card at home may obtain a temporary card at the reception desk. This card will be valid for one day only, and must be returned to the reception desk prior to leaving the building.
Card Reader Procedure
  • The main gate, building and sector access, as well as several other doors of the John H. Chapman Space Centre (JHCSC) building are controlled with card readers. These card readers allow for the restricting of access to some areas to only employees needing access in the performance of their duties.
  • As a reminder, if a door is opened without the validation of an access card through the reader, this will cause a security event, a local alarm will sound for approximately five seconds and an alarm is registered at the Security Control Post and a commissionaire is dispatched to the scene in order to investigate the event.

Admin Staff Contact Information

1.2 Mandate, Minister, and Portfolio

Mandate

The mandate of the Canadian Space Agency is "to promote the peaceful use and development of space, to advance the knowledge of space through science and to ensure that space science and technology provide social and economic benefits for Canadians."

The CSA delivers on its mandate in collaboration with Canadian industry, academia, Government of Canada organizations, and other international space agencies or organizations.

The founding legislation that received Royal Assent in attributed four main functions to the CSA:

  • Assist the Minister to coordinate the space policies and programs of the Government of Canada;
  • Plan, direct, manage and implement programs and projects relating to scientific or industrial space research and development and the application of space technology;
  • Promote the transfer and diffusion of space technology to and throughout Canadian industry; and
  • Encourage commercial exploitation of space capabilities, technology, facilities and systems.

Minister

The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and industry, is the Member of Parliament for Mississauga—Malton. He has been the Minister since . He is responsible for the portion of the Innovation, Science and Economic Development portfolio (commonly referred to as the Industry Portfolio), which includes the Canadian Space Agency. The Minister's top priorities are outlined in the mandate letter; space is not explicitly mentioned in the current letter, but "aerospace" is noted as a key sector of focus. ISED staff interpret this as including the space sector. Before entering politics, he was a distinguished visiting professor at Ryerson University's Ted Rogers School, and worked for several years in accounting and financial analysis for the Ford Motor Company of Canada.

Minister's Office

As CSA President, you have a direct reporting relationship to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry. The Minister is supported by several political staff who will help manage this relationship. Currently, CSA Policy management interacts with these staff on a regular basis at a bi-weekly meeting which is supplemented by the regular exchange of written briefings and information. These briefings are also usually attended by representatives from ISED's Aerospace, Marine and Defence Branch as well as Communications personnel.

CSA's current MINO point of contact is [REDACTED]. The Agency also often briefs [REDACTED]. Minister Bains' Chief of Staff is Ryan Dunn.

All information is transmitted to the Minister's office, and briefings are coordinated via the Departmental Liaison, currently [REDACTED]. Civil servants in the Deputy Minister's office also facilitate the flow of information. Rachel Mainville-Dale is currently the CSA's contact in the Deputy's office.

The Industry Portfolio

Seventeen (17) federal departments and agencies make up the Innovation, Science and Economic Development Portfolio. Together, these organizations are uniquely positioned to further the government's goal of building a knowledge-based economy in all regions of Canada and to advance the government's jobs and growth agenda. ISED- the lead department, works in partnership with the members of the ISED Portfolio to leverage resources and exploit synergies in a number of specific areas:

  • innovation through science and technology—helping firms and not-for-profit institutions more rapidly turn ideas into new products and services
  • trade and investment—encouraging more firms in more sectors to export to more markets, and helping Canadian firms attract a larger share of foreign direct investment
  • growth of small and medium-sized enterprises—providing access to capital, information and services
  • economic growth of Canadian communities—fostering new approaches to community economic development, based on community strengths and information infrastructures

A full list of departments and agencies that make up the Innovation, Science and Economic Development portfolio can be found here.

ISED's Industry Sector

The CSA also works closely with ISED through the Industry Sector's Aerospace, Marine and Defence Branch (known as ADMB). More specifically, your policy team liaises with the Space and Marine Directorate in this Branch to coordinate work and Minister's office briefings on space files. Industry Sector has a very large mandate which includes everything from tourism, automotive to life sciences and more. As a result, the CSA engages at all levels to raise awareness of space files within ISED. Industry Sector has two ADMs which both maintain an interest in space files and the activities of the CSA – Mitch Davies, Senior Assistant Deputy Minister and Mary Gregory, Associate Assistant Deputy Minister.

1.2.1 CSA Legal Context

Separate background documents on the "CSA Act - Mandate and Authority" and "Obligations of the Agency under International and National Trade Agreements" will be provided separately, due to Solicitor-Client Privilege.

1.3 CSA Organizational Structure

Effective , the CSA put in place a new organization structure (see chart below), adding a second Vice President position and re-organizing several reporting relationships. Historically, the number of VP positions in the CSA has varied, linked closely to the complexity and size of its portfolio of space missions. During times of high activity where the CSA managed a larger portfolio with more complex national, international, industry and academic interactions, the CSA tended to have two VP positions.

This change was driven as well by the new TBS Directive on the Management of Projects and Programmes which requires VP-level accountability for major projects with the highest level of risk and complexity, such as the Lunar Gateway. The key positions reporting to the President are noted below:

  • Luc Brûlé, Vice-President Science and Technology (S&T) - Oversight for CSA program sectors, including in Space Utilization, Space Exploration, and Space Science and Technology. Each program sector is led by a Director General. Based in Longueuil at CSA HQ.
  • Mary Preville, Acting Vice-President, Space Program Policy (SPP– Responsible for leading the development of the Agency's policy agenda, communications activities and programs and integrated planning functions. While a staffing competition to select the VP takes place, Mary Preville has taken on the position on an acting basis for four months, starting August 31. Based in Gatineau at CSA's Policy Branch offices. Mary's substantive position is that of Director General, Policy.
  • Jean-Claude Piedboeuf, Chief Financial Officer and Director General Corporate Services (CFO) - Responsible for Finance, Procurement and Material Management, Intellectual Property, Security and Facilities, Human Resources and Services Management.
  • Josée Saint-Marseille, Chief Information Officer (CIO– Responsible for establishing and providing a framework for service delivery, information and data management, digital services and cybersecurity.
  • Dominique Breden - Chief Audit and Evaluation Executive – Responsible for overseeing the CSA's audit and evaluation activities.

CSA Organizational Chart

Credit: CSA

CSA organisation chart - Text version

President: CSA

  • Legal Services
  • Science Advisor to the President
  • Vice-President (EX-04): Space Program Policy
    • Director General (EX-03): Policy
      • Executive Director (EX-02): Strategic Policy and Domestic Affairs
      • Executive Director (EX-02): Space Exploration and Space Industry Policy
      • Director (EX-01): Eco. Analysis, International and Reg. Affairs
    • Executive Director (EX-02): Comm. and Public Affairs
    • Executive Director (EX-02): Programs and Integrated Planning
  • Vice-President (EX-04): Science and Technology
    • Director General (EX-03): Space Utilization
      • Executive Director (EX-02): Space Exploitation
      • Director (EX-01): Sun Earth System Science
      • Director (EX-01): Space Utilization Program Dev.
    • Director General (EX-03): Space Exploration
      • Executive Director (EX-02): Space Exploration Operations and Infrastructure
      • Director (EX-01): Space Exploration Development
      • Director (EX-01): Astronauts, Life Sciences and Space Medicine
      • Executive Director (EX-02): Gateway Program
    • Director General (EX-03): Space Science and Technology
      • Executive Director (EX-02): David Florida Laboratory
      • Director (EX-01): Engineering Development
      • Director (EX-01): Technology Dev, Management
  • Director General (EX-03): Chief Financial Officer and Dir. Gen., Corporate Services
    • Executive Director (EX-02): Service Management and Administration
    • Deputy CFO (EX-02)
    • Director (EX-01): Human Resources
  • Chief Audit & Evaluation (EX-02)
  • Chief information Officer (EX-02)

1.4 Senior Management

  • Luc Brûlé
    Vice-President

    Luc Brûlé has been Vice President of the CSA since . As the President's senior advisor, the Vice President is the chief of day-to-day operations at the CSA, monitoring the use of resources, ensuring operations run smoothly and promoting the Agency's science and technology objectives. Previously, he was Director General of Space Utilization for the CSA. In this position, he was responsible for the overall planning of the Space Utilization Branch, which is tasked with end-to-end implementation of Earth observation, satellite communications and elements of the space environment of the CSA Space Program. Following a career at the Department of National Defence, Luc joined the CSA in , where he held a number of director positions, the most recent being Director of Space Exploration Development. With a bachelor's degree in physical engineering and a master's in nuclear engineering, Luc, working in various capacities over the years, has acquired substantial experience with the Canadian RADARSAT program. As manager of the program for the development and successful launch of RADARSAT-2, Luc was responsible for the Technology and Management Applications Directorate for two years, until he became the Director of Exploration Development.

  • Dominique Breden
    Chief, Audit and Evaluation Executive

    After completing a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a concentration in management accounting from the Université du Québec à Montréal in , Dominique Breden began her career as an auditor with the public service the following year. From to , she earned her stripes at Consulting and Audit Canada as an audit trainee, auditor, senior auditor and team leader, which provided the opportunity to perform audits, among other things, for the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) in Africa and for several other departments across Canada.

    In , she joined the Canadian Space Agency, starting out as team leader for Internal Audit until . She subsequently replaced the then chief executive, Audit, who was also in charge of Evaluation. In the year that followed, the federal government overhauled its auditing and evaluation policies and directives. She therefore had to undertake long-term strategic planning for both functions, create a departmental audit committee and a committee for the evaluation function, and review the organizational structure. In , she was officially appointed Chief Audit and Evaluation Executive and Senior Officer Responsible for Disclosure of Wrongdoing for the Canadian Space Agency. Over the years, Ms. Breden has been increasingly involved in the Agency's corporate activities and is now the APEX Departmental Representative, GBA+ (Gender-Based Analysis+) Champion, Employment Equity and Diversity Champion, and champion for the Visible Minority Network and for Women in Science, Technology and Management.

  • Christine Calvé
    Executive Director, Legal Services, and General Counsel

    Christine Calvé was appointed Executive Director and General Counsel of the Canadian Space Agency Legal Services Unit in . Christine received her Civil Law License in from the University of Ottawa. She also studied European Law at Université Pierre Mendès -France and International Business at HEC-Montréal. She was admitted to the Barreau du Québec in and has since practiced law at the Department of Justice Canada. She is currently General Counsel and Executive Director of Legal Services for the Canadian Space Agency, the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. She has occupied various positions during her career at the Department of Justice including litigation, advisory and managerial positions. She was first appointed Executive Director and General Counsel in . Over the course of her career, Christine has contributed to a number of sensitive and important files for the Canadian government, mostly related to commercial law. She has pleaded in front of Federal Courts and negotiated numerous agreements with the Government of Quebec. She assisted government in numerous high-profile files and while working on these files, Christine developed a large network of contacts and retained valuable relationships with several legal experts.

  • Marie-Claude Guérard
    Director General, Space Science and Technology

    Marie-Claude Guérard has been working for the Federal Public Service for the last 20 years, mainly at the Canadian Space Agency. From to , she led the Canadian Space Agency Finance Sector as Chief Financial Officer. She has been co-chair of the Space Agency's Continuous Improvement Committee and has also been involved in the labor-management committees of her department.

    In , Ms. Guérard became the Director General of Space Science and Technology at the Canadian Space Agency. Her group carries out activities that range from pre-mission R&D to timely flight demonstration, with the goal of positioning the Canadian space sector for global opportunities. These activities are aimed at increasing space and market readiness, pushing the frontiers of research and knowledge with an emphasis on developing the space workforce of tomorrow by encouraging college and university students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). She has been named co-chair of the Greater Montreal Workplace Charitable Campaign. Since , she holds a position on the Board of directors of Centraide for the Greater Montreal region.

    Ms. Guérard holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the Université de Sherbrooke and an accounting designation from the Order of Chartered Professional Accountants of Quebec. [REDACTED]

  • Éric Laliberté
    Director General, Space Utilization

    Éric Laliberté is the Director General of the Space Utilization branch, with the mandate to oversee the end-to-end implementation of the Earth Observation, Satellite Communications and Space Environment elements of the Canadian Space Program.

    Mr. Laliberté joined the CSA in 2001 where he has since held various positions, the most recent, before his current position, being the Director General of Space Science and Technology and Director of Space Exploration Projects. Eric holds a Masters in Engineering Management from the University of Sherbrooke and a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering with an automation specialty from McGill University. He served 12 years as an Aerospace Engineering Officer in the Royal Canadian Air Force before joining the Canadian Space Agency. He was part of the Air Reserve for 10 years where he assumed the responsibilities of Quality Manager and of 438 Squadron's Aircraft Maintenance Flight Commander.

  • Gilles Leclerc
    Director General, Space Exploration

    Gilles Leclerc joined the Canadian Space Agency in . He gained experience as Space Policy Analyst, Project Engineer and Program Manager on a variety of national and international space programs in technology development, satellite communications, earth observation and flight simulation. Between and , Mr. Leclerc was posted as Counsellor for Science, Technology and Space Affairs at the Canadian Embassy in Paris where he was also Canada's Permanent Delegate to the European Space Agency. Upon his return to the CSA, he became Director, Technology Management and Applications and subsequently Director General, Space Technologies, in .

    Since , Mr. Leclerc is the CSA's Director General, Space Exploration. In this position, he provides strategic guidance and programmatic direction for all aspects of the Agency's human and robotic exploration of space, including Canada's participation in the International Space Station and the Lunar Gateway; Astronomy and Planetary missions; Space Robotics; Human Spaceflight (Canadian Astronauts); Life and Health Sciences; and Operational Space Medicine.

  • Jean-Claude Piedboeuf
    Chief Financial Officer and Director General, Corporate Services

    Jean-Claude Piedbœuf is the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) since . As CFO, he has a strategic role in budget and investment planning to align the funding with the CSA's priorities. Since , he is also the DG for Corporate Services including human resources, security and facilities, intellectual property and the new function of service management. In addition, he is co-chair of the Continuous Improvement Committee and CSA's Champion for the PCO initiative Beyond .

    After completing his Ph.D. in robotics in , Dr. Piedbœuf spent a year as post-doctoral researcher in Germany and then joined the Royal Military College of Kingston, Ontario in as Professor in Mechanical Engineering. He joined the Canadian Space Agency in as a researcher in robotics and moved in various management, strategic planning and executive positions in Space Technology until and in Space Exploration from to where he end-up as acting director general. From to , he was Director General of Space Science and Technology at the CSA. His group carried out activities that range from pre-mission R&D to timely flight demonstrations, with the goal of positioning the Canadian space sector for global in opportunities.

  • Mary Preville
    Director General, Policy / Acting Vice-President, Space Program Policy (SPP)

    Mary Preville joined the Canadian Space Agency in , as Director General, Policy. Since then, she has been instrumental in the development of Canada's new Space Strategy, and in securing Canada's commitment to join the US-led Lunar Gateway initiative. She has grown Canada's relationships internationally and facilitated Canadian space companies' access to contracts and investment capital through multiple business-to-business meetings with large global space companies. Recently, Ms. Preville was asked to act as the new Vice President, Space Program Policy.

    Previously, Ms. Preville was Director General at Natural Resources Canada where she was responsible Arctic logistics for scientific advancement, for the Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation program, as well as for a number of international and policy issues. For many years, Ms. Preville was the lead executive responsible for energy research and development programs. Ms. Preville gained broad policy experience through her time as an advisor in a Deputy Minister's office and as a departmental liaison in a Minister's office. She also spent two years at the International Energy Agency in Paris, a multilateral institution under the auspices of the OECD. Ms. Preville holds a Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) from McGill University and a Master in Business Administration from the University of Ottawa.

  • Josée Saint-Marseille
    Chief Information Officer and Cybersecurity Agent

    Josée Saint-Marseille has been the Chief Information Officer (CIO) since and was recently named Cybersecurity Agent at the Canadian Space Agency (CSA). She has also been mandated to develop a Data Expertise Center and implement the CSA Digital Strategy.

    Ms. Saint-Marseille holds a Bachelor in Technical Writing from l'Université de Sherbrooke, a Master in Library and Information Sciences from l'Université de Montréal, a graduate studies in Business Sciences as well as a Master in Business Administration (MBA), both from l'École des hautes études commerciales. During her career, she was involved in various committees and boards, on the national scene as well as the international one.

  • Yves Saulnier
    Executive Director, Corporate Services and Human Resources

    Proud of his Acadian roots and his part of the country, Yves began his university studies at the Université de Moncton in New Brunswick. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Social Sciences with a major in Political Science and a minor in Business Administration. He also has a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.), which he obtained from Université du Québec à Montréal. This allowed him to deepen and perfect his knowledge of labor law. Yves' career spans over 30 years in the Federal Public Service. He has been with the Canadian Space Agency for 20 years. He has also been a member of the executive committee since . His fields of expertise are management and human resources management.

    During the years he spent as an executive at the CSA, Yves held various positions such as Chief Human Resources Officer; Executive Director, Corporate Services and Human Resources as well as Director of the David Florida Laboratory. These positions were responsible for a wide variety of areas: Human Resources, Information Management, Information Technology, Access to information, Security, Facilities and finally integration, assembly and testing of spacecraft.

  • Melanie Winzer
    Executive Director, Programs and Integrated Planning

    Melanie Winzer joined the CSA in as the Executive Director, Programs and Integrated Planning. She is the CSA's Senior Designated Official for Project Management, the Head of Performance Measurement and responsible for Safety and Mission Assurance. Melanie is also the CSA's Champion for Mental Health, Wellness and Recognition and a speaker with the Federal Speaker's Bureau on Mental Health. Since , she has been a Board Member of the Planning and Performance Exchange, a not-for-profit organization that focuses on improving and sharing best practices in planning, performance measurement, reporting, and risk.

    Prior to this, Melanie spent four years at the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) as Head of Performance Management as well as the Manager, Planning, Performance, Reporting and Data. She has accumulated over 20 years of Government of Canada experience, focusing her career in the areas of performance management, results, project management, planning, public reporting as well as impact and risk assessment. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce Honours from the University of Ottawa and a Master of Arts in Political Science from Carleton University.

1.5 CSA Human Resources and Demographic Info

Since , CSA's workforce has increased steadily, increasing by 11.3% since to 660 in . This trend should continue in the coming years.

Figure 1 Occupational groups at the CSA
Occupational groups Total
EN 240
AS 71
CR 52
EC 37
FI 34
CS 33
CO 31
IS 29
EG 22
EX 22
PE 22
PC 19
BI 11
PG 10
GT 7
EL 4
MD 3
OC 3
GS 2
LS 2
PM 2
SE 2
ED 1
GL 1
Total 660
Occupational groups

The CSA's workforce is made up of a wide variety of occupational groups. Although engineers (EN) make up 37% of all employees, 24 different occupational groups are present at the CSA.

CSA's representativeness – Equity groups

The CSA will need to eliminate the representation gaps for visible minorities and persons with disabilities to ensure that its workforce is representative of the Canadian population.

Distribution of the workforce by region as of

CSA employees are primarily located (89.4%) at the John H. Chapman Space Centre in Longueuil, Quebec. The remaining 10.6% are located in Ottawa (at David Florida Laboratory) or in Gatineau. Additionally, seven employees are on assignment outside the country, five in Houston at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), one in Washington and one in Paris.

Official Languages

Employees working in Longueuil are 73% Francophone; this proportion falls to 21% for those located in Gatineau/Ottawa (was 32% in ).

1.6 CSA Financial Snapshot

The CSA's Finance Branch will provide you with a detailed briefing on the CSA's financial status shortly after your arrival.

These are the Main Estimates from the CSA's - Departmental Plan.

Departmental Spending Trend Graph. Text version below:
Main Estimates from the CSA's - Departmental Plan (dollars) - Text version
CSA Planned Spending graph
- - - - - -
Statutory 9,484,766 9,579,872 10,311,635 10,470,127 10,582,883 10,640,562
Voted 343,973,221 296,165,728 362,859,676 384,433,353 361,796,685 365,694,583
Total 353,457,987 305,745,600 373,171,311 394,903,480 372,379,568 376,335,145

1.7 CSA Facilities and Locations

The CSA's headquarters, the John H. Chapman Space Centre, is located in Longueuil (on the south shore of the Greater Montreal Area,). The facility houses the Mobile Servicing System (MSS) Operations Training Simulator where astronauts learn to use the Canadarm2, the Mission Control Centre for Canadarm2 and Dextre robotics operations, an Integration and Demonstration Laboratory for rovers, a multi-mission control facility for CSA's Earth observation satellites, an outdoor analogue terrain for rover testing and other scientific laboratories and workshops.

Most of the Policy Branch and some members of the Programs and Integrated Planning Branch are located in Gatineau. The David Florida Laboratory (the CSA's spacecraft assembly, integration and testing centre) is located in Ottawa at the Communications Research Centre campus at Shirley's Bay, just outside of Ottawa. Additionally, four fully trained astronauts and several CSA mission specialists are located in Houston. The CSA also has one liaison officer each to the European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA posted at the Canadian embassies in Paris and Washington respectively.

1.8 Space Strategy – Overview

Canada's Space Strategy - Exploration, Imagination, Innovation – was announced by the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry on . The strategy aims to present a "whole-of-government" direction and priorities for Canada's space program. It recognizes space as a strategic asset for Canada, where all of government works together so that Canadians can continue to rely on space to help meet national needs. The cornerstone of the Strategy is the commitment to joining the NASA's Lunar Gateway program by developing and contributing a smart robotic system – Canadarm3.

The development of the strategy was strongly influenced by the report of the Minister's Space Advisory Board, following cross-country consultations that it undertook in , as well as significant interdepartmental consultations with the key space "user departments".

The Strategy was released via the Minister's own authority as the Minister responsible for the CSA (and therefore ultimately responsible to coordinate the space policies and programs of the Government of Canada).

The Strategy is organized into five goals and 18 objectives:

  1. Ensure Canada remains a leading spacefaring nation by joining the Lunar Gateway mission
    • Build the next-gen AI-enabled deep space robotic system
    • Enable scientific opportunities and global partnerships
    • Guarantee the future of our Astronaut Program
  2. Inspire the next generation of Canadians to reach for the stars
    • Launch a national contest to recruit Canada's "junior astronauts"
    • Organize visits by astronauts and other inspiring speakers to schools across Canada
  3. Harness space to solve everyday challenges for Canadians
    • Connect Canadians everywhere
    • Enhance security and sovereignty
    • Improve remote medicine and healthcare
    • Enhance access to nutritious food
    • Support future secure communications
  4. Position Canada's commercial space sector to help grow the economy and create the jobs of the future
    • Create a modern regulatory framework
    • Cement and expand our international partnerships
    • Help our space firms start-up and scale-up
    • Partner with industry to make investments and create jobs here in Canada
  5. Ensure Canada's Leadership in acquiring and using space-based data to support science excellence, innovation and economic growth
    • Collect climate change data
    • Prioritize future Earth observation capabilities
    • Support excellence in data analytics
    • Support space science to study Earth and beyond

In the past, Canada has had long-term space plans which set out specific programs and associated funding. The Strategy is a departure from this previous approach, but does include, in addition to providing a guide for potential future investments, references to previously announced funding worth $2.6B since Budget . This includes:

  • Budget : $379 million for Canada's continuation in the International Space Station until and $30 million for Canada's continued participation in the European Space Agency's Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems program
  • Budget : $80.9 million for the CSA to support new projects and utilize Canadian innovations in space including the Quantum Encryption and Science Satellite (QEYSSat) mission.
  • Budget : $100 million over five years for the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) to invest in projects that relate to the development of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites that support broadband connectivity. $85M of this has been awarded to Telesat to assist in the development of its Telesat LEO broadband telecommunications satellite system.
  • Budget : The Government of Canada announced the creation of a $1.7B Universal Broadband Fund (UBF), which was created to help ensure every Canadian has access to high-speed internet at minimum speeds of 50/10 Mbps. Related to this announcement, the Government has committed to purchasing up to $600M worth of broadband services from Telesat LEO, as Telesat LEO is poised to offer affordable, high-speed broadband services across Canada once operational. Note, this $600M commitment is over and above the $1.7B announced as part of the UBF.
  • Strategy commitment (): $1.9B to develop and contribute an advanced, next-generation, AI-enabled deep-space robotic system for NASA's Lunar Gateway project.
  • Strategy commitment (); $150M for a new Lunar Exploration Accelerator Program (LEAP) over five years to help firms develop and demonstrate space technologies that will create new commercial opportunities in Canada linked to our participation in the Lunar Gateway mission.

More information on how the CSA is implementing the space strategy is available in the CSA's - Business Plan which can be found on the CSA intranet.

1.9 State of the Space Sector

The State of the Canadian Space Sector Report, which the CSA has been publishing since , provides the most comprehensive and authoritative data available on the Canadian Space sector, as well as long-term trend analysis on the economic activity generated in the sector. The report includes data on the number of organizations active in the sector and their composition, the sectors of activity, the Canadian space workforce and its composition, research and development (R&D), and innovation. The survey data is widely used by stakeholders and government officials, including Minister Bains and Prime Minister Trudeau.

The report is based on a questionnaire that is sent every spring to companies, not-for-profit organizations, research centres and universities with space-related activities in Canada. To align with international practices, the publication is identified by the year in which the survey took place (e.g. ), but covers data from the previous year (e.g. ).

The State of the Canadian Space Sector Report: Facts and Figures , which was published in is based on data from 174 organizations. Key highlights from the survey showed that in , the Canadian space sector:

  • Generated $5.7B in revenues (stable compared to previous years)
  • Contributed $2.5B to Canada's GDP
  • Employed close to 10,000 people, of whom 61% were STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) related employees, and indirectly supported 11,000 additional jobs in the wider economy
  • Spent $356M in Business expenditures on R&D (BERD), from space companies.

The Space sector survey normally launches in May, but the launch has been delayed to this year given the disruption caused by Covid-19. The survey will gather key metrics for the year.

2. First 100 Days – Hot Issues, Key Decisions, Engagements, Events

2.1 Hot Issues and Key Decisions

2.1.1 Gateway Negotiations

Considerations

Canada's participation in the Lunar Gateway program requires a legally binding framework to formalize the partnership. In , [REDACTED].

[REDACTED]

Further detail on this negotiation will be provided to you in subsequent briefing notes.

2.1.2 Implementation of Lunar Program (Canadarm3)

Description

On , the Prime Minister announced a historic investment in Canada's Space Program committing $1.9 billion over 24 years to design, build and operate Canadarm3, a next generation smart robotic system, as a contribution to the NASA-led Lunar Gateway. The Canadarm3 will be a complete end-to-end robotic system that will be able to support autonomous operations using artificial intelligence (AI). The scope of this robotic system includes AI-enabled deep space robotic manipulators (i.e., one large robotic arm and a dexterous small arm), tools, flight support equipment, ground operations center, simulator and analysis tools, all robotic interfaces (RI), deep space habitat operational interfaces, maintenance during its life cycle, and evolutionary options. [REDACTED] which is part of the Mobile Servicing System (MSS) on the International Space Station (ISS) whose operations are a shared responsibility between NASA and the CSA.

Background

The Canadarm3 investment is the first major investment in Space Robotics made by Canada since the development of the MSS (i.e, Canadarm2 and Dextre on the ISS). The cost estimate to design, manufacture and test the Canadarm3 is [REDACTED]. This significant investment will consolidate Canada's leadership position in space robotics, an area of increasing strategic importance to support future human and robotic exploration initiatives and the expansion of commercial space activities in Earth's orbit.

The Canadarm3 investment aims to support the growth and development of the Canadian space industry while maximizing collaborative R&D, technology transfer and commercialization opportunities. MacDonald Dettwiler and Associates (MDAInc. of Brampton (Ontario) will play a larger role in the management and operations of this new space asset compared to the MSS. The company is also expected to leverage this investment to expand its commercial initiatives related to space robotics (e.g. commercial space station, on-orbit servicing of satellites and large infrastructure assembly in orbit).

Key Milestones and Timelines

[REDACTED] Progress to the key project milestones set out below will be supported by the CSA's rigorous Investment Governance and Monitoring Framework.

Key Milestone (Notional) Date
[REDACTED] [REDACTED]
[REDACTED] [REDACTED]
[REDACTED] [REDACTED]
Canadarm3 Phase A Contract Award
[REDACTED] [REDACTED]
[REDACTED] [REDACTED]
[REDACTED] [REDACTED]
Considerations

[REDACTED], the CSA is accelerating the development of the robotics interfaces needed for the first elements of the Gateway before the Canadarm3 is launched (as early as ). [REDACTED]

[REDACTED] authority to enter into a non-competitive contract with MDA technical requirements definition phase (Phase A) of the Canadarm3 project to further evolve the concepts developed during the option analysis phase, develop a set of system requirements and mature the development of critical technologies. The Phase A contract, which will run from to , will also require MDA to develop a Value Proposition (VP) that meets the government's economic benefits objectives and respond to the requirements of the Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) policy whereby companies awarded with large Government contracts are required to undertake business activities in Canada equal to the value of the contracts awarded. This is the first application of the ITB policy by the Government outside of Department of National Defence and Canadian Coast Guard procurements. This approach aligns with Canada's Space Strategy, which commits to leveraging procurement strategically to grow the space industry through the ITB Policy. The application and management of the ITB policy for the Canadarm3 project is led and managed by ISED, in close collaboration with the CSA.

Through the Canadarm3 Value Proposition, the CSA will encourage the growth of a vibrant and sustainable industrial ecosystem and expects that MDA will work in close partnership with small and medium enterprises and R&D organizations from across the country. A internal evaluation report of the MSS sub program noted that Canada was not doing enough to fully reap the benefits of the space robotics technologies developed for the ISS and recommended that the CSA assess options for increasing commercialization and technology transfers to other areas and applications. By applying the ITB policy and the Value Proposition to the Canadarm3 project, the CSA and ISED will ensure that the full potential of this investments to stimulate innovation and support economic benefits is leveraged trough industry-research partnerships and synergies between the robotics, machine vision and AI/digital technologies ecosystems.

Advice

At a time when NASA and the other key partners are ramping up their plans and making investments towards deep space exploration goals and objectives, Canada is securing a role and its place through the Canadarm3 contribution to the Gateway. However, our partners are already preparing for the next phase beyond Gateway. NASA is taking a different approach for the lunar surface exploration, relying on commercial providers and creating competition between them. With the Canadarm3 development soon under way and the international plans to explore the lunar surface accelerating, Canada needs to start preparing for the next step now. In line with authorities previously received from the Government, the CSA is developing additional contribution options to support deep space exploration initiatives and is investing in areas of recognized Canadian expertise such as health and biomedical technologies, food production and rovers technologies, which have all potential for significant socio-economic benefits and terrestrial applications (e.g. northern development, services to remote communities, etc.).

2.1.3 Artemis Accords

Considerations

The Artemis Accords are a U.S.-led initiative to establish a set of principles, between space agencies, for safe and sustainable space exploration operations. The U.S. has indicated they will be a prerequisite for participation in the next phase of space exploration (Moon, Mars, beyond) – except the Lunar Gateway itself. The Accords could have significant impacts on the Canadian space program (e.g. Lunar Surface activities through LEAP) and Canadian industry, given the prevalence of our collaboration with the U.S in space.

Many of the principles in the Artemis Accords are based on the existing international space treaties, to which Canada is a signatory, and therefore address subjects for which Canada has long-standing policy positions. However, the CSA is coordinating with OGDs to conduct public consultations and develop policy approaches on the principles that address emerging issues, such as Space Resource Utilization and activities on the Moon or other celestial bodies, to support discussions with the U.S.

[REDACTED]. Further detail on this issue will be provided to you in subsequent briefing notes.

2.1.4 Impacts of COVID-19 in the Space Sector and Stimulus Activities

Description

As a key partner in the ISED portfolio and in an effort to respond to our stakeholders needs and the Minister's call to action in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, the CSA has re-prioritized some of its activities and funding to provide further support to the Canadian space sector during these difficult times.

Background

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government of Canada is continuing to identify measures to address the public health and economic threats of the virus.

The CSA, ISED and industry groups (i.e. AIAC, SATCan) undertook surveys of industry (e.g. virtual town halls, individual outreach) throughout and , to understand what impacts the pandemic was having on the industry. The impacts on the Canadian space sector of the COVID-19 pandemic have been varied, with all firms reporting some impact to their operations, from difficulty maintaining positive cash flow and generating income to recruiting and retaining key talent. Among the key concerns raised by industry were:

  1. reduction in the industry's ability to seek, develop and close new business opportunities;
  2. drying up of investment opportunities (specifically raised by start-ups); and
  3. supply chain delays and disruptions.
Considerations

The CSA increased, almost doubling, its planned short-term investments by $28M using existing resources through the Space Capacity Development funding programs (mostly G&Cs) to support the recovery of the Canadian space sector.

An immediate and broad impact is anticipated as approximately 40 companies (large, medium and small) and 12 universities from across the country will benefit from these additional investments. This will allow Canada's firms and space scientists to maintain their capabilities during the pandemic and conduct additional research and development projects positioning them to take advantage of the economic recovery.

Announcements for these new opportunities have already started and will extend into the new year.

Suggested Speaking Points
  • The CSA quickly re-prioritized some of its investments in order to provide support to space sector firms to maintain their capabilities during the pandemic and be able to continue to conduct their work.
  • CSA staff and facilities have been involved in the response to COVID-19 through the use of our 3D printing capabilities providing just over 250 parts for use in the assembly of face shields, later distributed to Montreal region hospitals.
  • Sarah Gallagher, the CSA's science advisor, and her Health Canada counterpart spearheaded the new CanCOVID platform, created to foster collaboration between science, policy and health experts in Canada in the fight against COVID-19.
  • The CSA continues to engage with the National Research Council (NRC) and other partners to understand how our technical expertise and facilities could be used as part of the federal, provincial and local response to COVID-19. Over the longer-term, CSA has partnered with NRC to develop medical diagnostic technologies for use in deep space exploration that could also be used in terrestrial applications, particularly in rural and remote communities, including for the detection of viruses.

2.1.5 CETA Sunset

Considerations

On , the Canada-European Union (EU) Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) came into provisional application. As a result, for the first time in a trade agreement, certain CSA procurement activities are subject to the CETA government procurement obligations. This application is limited to the CSA's procurement of covered goods and services related to satellite communications, earth observation and global navigation satellite systems and is temporary for a five-year period (until ). Before this date, Canada must decide whether to remove or maintain this temporary commitment – and the CSA will lead this effort in coordination with a number of OGDs. There are a number of factors that will be assessed to help make the decision, including the results of public consultations as well as analysis on a number of other relevant factors. Further information on this issue will be provided in subsequent briefing notes.

2.1.6 Mars Sample Return

Description

The Mars Sample Return (MSR) Mission is widely regarded by NASA, ESA, as well as Canada's planetary science community as the essential next step in advancing the scientific understanding of Mars, including its potential for past or present life. MSR will deliver a number of mission 'firsts', including the first combined precision landings, launch from and multi-spacecraft operation at another planet, and the return of unspoiled, and collected under controlled conditions, samples from another planet for analysis on Earth.

Background

In , NASA and ESA signed a letter of intent to collaborate on the MSR Mission aimed at returning carefully selected samples to Earth for scientific investigation in terrestrial laboratories. The Mission's first flight element, the Mars Rover, was launched by NASA in July of this year, and is responsible for sample selection, acquisition and caching. In or /, a fetch rover will be launched to retrieve the sample and insert them in a Mars Ascent Vehicle (rocket) that will launch them to Mars orbit. This second element will [REDACTED] and bring them back to the ascent vehicle. The third element, the Earth Return Orbiter, will retrieve the samples in Mars orbit and insert them in a capsule for return to Earth in the early 2030's.

Decision Point and Timelines

At the most recent ESA Ministerial meeting, which took place in , the GC committed approximately [REDACTED].

[REDACTED]

[REDACTED]

Considerations

[REDACTED]

The total estimated cost of the multiple missions required to complete the MSR campaign will be on the order of $10B. [REDACTED]

[REDACTED]

[REDACTED]

[REDACTED]

2.1.7 RCM Data Access

Description

Imagery (data) from RCM is primarily for GC use, but is also intended to be available to external users (subject to security requirements) to maximize economic and scientific benefits from its exploitation. Challenges remain to implement the process required to conduct security checks on external users ("vetting").

Background

Declared operational in , RCM is the world's most powerful synthetic aperture radar (SAR) system and is the result of a $1.2B GC investment. RCM acquires data and produces imagery, first and foremost in support of Government of Canada services and needs. GC departments have now fully transitioned from using RADARSAT-2 to RCM ().

The data policy for RCM (among other objectives) commits the GC to:

  • make RCM SAR data available, accessible, and affordable to the broadest extent possible, subject to applicable restrictions associated with privacy, confidentiality and security
  • stimulate economic growth by promoting the development of innovative products and services, derived from RCM SAR Data, by Canadian industry and researchers

A small percentage of RCM imagery is available to the general public with no restrictions. Industry, academic and international organizations wishing to access RCM image products over and above those available to the general public are supposed to go through a security screening process known as vetting. This process is only operational for provincial and territorial governments at this time.

Decision Point and Timelines

Challenges with vetting industry, academic and international users may require intervention at the Deputy Head level in fall to ensure data policy objectives can be met and that RCM can serve as a good example to support decision-making on future EO investments.

Considerations

Since late , the CSA has been leading RCM SAR Data Policy and Technical Tiger Teams with participation from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), Department of National Defence (DND), Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), Global Affairs (GAC), Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) and Shared Services (SSC) to find balanced solutions to problems with the distribution of RCM imagery. [REDACTED].

[REDACTED]

[REDACTED] consider proposals for longer-term Earth Observation initiatives such as Earth Observation Services Continuity (EOSC) (see Book 3 for more information on this initiative), and space-based Earth observation (SBEO) (see section 2.1.8 below for more information).

Advice

The CSA should continue to work with key departments to diagnose and develop solutions (including advice to GAC) to address challenges with RCM data access. Advice to GAC should be presented as the combined position of a coalition of departments, not solely that of the CSA.

[REDACTED], Space Utilization and Policy will provide you with a recommended approach to consult with implicated Deputy Heads and the DM of ISED; and to raise the issues and their implications with DM of GAC.

Suggested Speaking Points

If raised by external data users (e.g., industry, academia):

  • I understand that there are challenges with accessing RCM imagery. I am working with my team to overcome these challenges and get the imagery flowing, with due regard to security requirements. What is your intended use of RCM imagery? What specific problems are you facing with access? What solutions do you think would improve access?

If raised by the DM of ISED:

  • [REDACTED]

If raised by the DM of GAC:

  • [REDACTED]

2.1.8 Space-based Earth Observation

Description

Since the summer of , an intergovernmental approach to developing a new strategy for the collection and use of satellite Earth observation data in Canada has been underway, led by ADMs from CSA, ECCC, NRCan, DND, DFO, and AAFC. The main leads of this activity are Luc Brûlé (CSA VP) and Diane Campbell (ECCC ADM). DM-level champions for this initiative include Martine Dubuc from ECCC and, formerly, your predecessor Sylvain Laporte.

Background

SBEO is the use of satellites, like the RADARSAT family, to collect large-scale datasets about Canada's landmass, waters, borders and atmosphere, which supports fundamental science, government operations and industrial activity. The GC relies on SBEO data from several different satellite missions – most notably the RADARSAT Constellation Mission - to deliver over 60 different critical services relating to environmental, defence, safety and security priorities. Long-term continuous access to this data is now a requirement for the functioning of the GC.

In , an internal GC diagnostic on the state of SBEO in Canada identified the need for a whole of government approach that considered SBEO as an end to end system – from data collection in orbit all the way to product development on the ground (known as the value chain approach).

This SBEO Task Force then produced an internal White Paper outlining a vision for the future capabilities of SBEO in Canada that would meet government, industry, and academic needs. In response, a DG committee was formed in to direct Working Groups in two discrete areas of activity of SBEO. First, the data sourcing portion (upstream) and second, the data reception and usage portion (midstream/ downstream). The Working Groups were tasked with identifying existing and potential initiatives within these streams to meet the vision of the SBEO White Paper and therefore advance Canada's SBEO capabilities for the benefit of all stakeholders. The SBEO Task Force remains active in engagement with key stakeholders from industry and academia, preparing presentations for DGs and ADMs at conferences and industry events. Accordingly, an SBEO Engagement Paper was released publicly in calling for input from stakeholders to a special GC email address.

Decision Point and Timelines

[REDACTED]

Considerations

[REDACTED]. However, advancing these capabilities is critical to broader GC priorities around climate change, public health, and northern development. [REDACTED]

Advice

Ultimately, a decision among DGs and ADMs at core SBEO departments CSA, ECCC, and NRCan, will need to be made regarding [REDACTED]

[REDACTED]

[REDACTED] Timelines for the SBEO Initiative have been strained by COVID and work-from-home scenarios, making interdepartmental work somewhat more challenging. There is unprecedented collaboration between the SBEO departments and substantial high level support (DM & ADM).

A follow-on briefing on the SBEO initiative will be provided shortly after your arrival at the CSA.

Suggested Speaking Points
  • Observing Canada from space allows for data driven decision making on many government priorities such as climate change mitigation and adaptation, emergency management, security & sovereignty, and agriculture, among others.
  • In order for Canada to remain a leader we need to take important decisions today to increase our capacity to respond to current and future challenges.
  • Advancing Canada's SBEO infrastructure and workforce is an investment in the modern global digital economy.

2.1.9 Satellite Operations Business Model

Description

The CSA is making changes to improve how flight operations and data management are conducted. This requires transition to a new business model, [REDACTED]

Background

Satellite flight operations is a responsibility of the CSA which includes spacecraft health monitoring and control; operational analysis; basic system maintenance; data order handling; image quality control and data processing; and archiving of data for satellite missions.

The CSA is responsible for flight operations data management for the RADARSAT Constellation Mission (RCM), M3MSat, NEOSSat and SCISAT. CSA must have uninterrupted flight operations capacity (i.e., through FTEs and contracted resources) to ensure these missions can be maintained and produce data.

On , a revised business model was approved at the Executive Committee. This new model is being implemented due to several factors including: a significant increase in scale and complexity with the addition of RCM operations; and enabling a competitive contracting environment to improve agility, foster industry innovation and socio-economic returns. In , the IIRB approved the posting of an RFP according to the new business model. The RFP closed on .

Decision Point and Timelines

[REDACTED]. This timeline will help to ensure service continuity for RCM, whose flight operations tasks are included in the contract with MDA that runs out in .

[REDACTED]

Considerations

[REDACTED]

[REDACTED]

Advice

[REDACTED]

2.1.10 Long-term use of the David Florida Laboratory

Description

[REDACTED]

Background

[REDACTED]

[REDACTED]

[REDACTED]

Decision Point and Timelines

[REDACTED]

[REDACTED]

[REDACTED]

[REDACTED]

While the DFL is operated by the CSA, the building is under the administration of the Communications Research Centre (CRC). [REDACTED]

[REDACTED]

[REDACTED]

[REDACTED]

Considerations

[REDACTED] Your officials in the CSA Policy Branch remain in close contact with these other stakeholders to maintain up-to-date awareness of all pertinent information and to help ensure a coordinated GC approach to the file. [REDACTED]

[REDACTED]

[REDACTED]

Advice

[REDACTED]

[REDACTED]

2.1.11 Legal Hot Issues

The Executive Director and General Counsel of the CSA will brief you directly on any legal issues that implicated the CSA at present.

2.2 Internal Services Hot Issues

2.2.1 Investment Plan

Description

The Policy on the Planning and Management of Investments requires that an Investment Plan be submitted every three years to the Treasury Board. The Organizational Project Management Capacity Assessment (OPMCA) is submitted for consideration of the Treasury Board at the same time.

Background

The last CSA Investment Plan and OPMCA was approved by [REDACTED] However, the COVID-19 pandemic forced the Treasury Board Secretariat to prioritize certain files, [REDACTED]. A blanket one-year extension for the presentation of investment plans and the renewal of OPMCAs was provided to federal department and agencies.

Decision Point and Timelines

[REDACTED]

Considerations

The OPMCA confirmed a CSA Organizational Project Management Capacity Class of 3 – "Evolutionary". Maintaining this project management capacity level is crucial for a project-based organization such as the CSA. [REDACTED].

[REDACTED]

This means that decisions taken since the ARLU - (prepared in the fall ) will not formally be included in the investment plan, notably the Canadarm3 project [REDACTED]. Similarly, recent developments such as the approval of the revision D of the Integrated Governance and Monitoring Framework or the creation of a Space Strategy Investment Board will not be included given that they will have not been fully implemented yet.

Advice

You will be briefed during your first week on the submission presenting the CSA investment plan and the OPMCA and [REDACTED] for the JWST. It is recommended that you approve and sign it.

2.2.2 - Departmental Results Report

Description

The - Departmental Results Reports (DRR) is the individual agency account of actual performance against the plans, priorities and expected results set out in the - Departmental Plans (DP).

Background

The - DP contained five priorities:

  • Lunar Gateway and a whole of government Canadian Space Strategy;
  • Launch and commissioning of the RADARSAT Constellation Mission (RCM);
  • Astronaut David Saint-Jacques's ISS mission: Science and outreach;
  • Canada's participation in the European Space Agency's (ESA) Ministerial Council meeting; and
  • Scientific satellites - Collaboration with other government departments.

Significant progress has been made on each of these priorities.

Decision Point and Timelines

ISED Portfolio organizations are required to submit their Deputy Head approved - DRR to ISED - Corporate Management Services (CMS) by . ISED will coordinate the approval and signature of the DRRs by the Minister of ISED, in order to meet Treasury Board Secretariat deadline for tabling. TBS advised all organizations that based on the current information available, the deadline to submit DRR to TBS is .

Considerations

The CSA's - DRR was developed in accordance with TBS guidelines and reviewed by ISED-CMS.

The CSA's Executive Committee members, including the Vice President and Chief Financial Officer have reviewed and approved the document. All performance results have been approved by the Head of Performance Measurement and the Chief Results and Delivery Officer as per the Policy on Results.

Advice

It is recommended that you approve the CSA's - DRR by .

2.2.3 Current Audits and Evaluations

The Audit and Evaluation directorate is presently conducting several audit and evaluation projects simultaneously. The two projects identified below were among the priorities of the Audit Committee (AC) and the Performance Measurement and Evaluation Committee (PMEC). These projects were identified either in the Risk-Based Audit Plan (-) approved in or in the Five-Year Evaluation Plan (-) approved in :

Audit of cyber security practices

The objective of the audit of cyber security practices is to determine whether a management framework is in place to identify threats and cyber security vulnerabilities, to mitigate cyber security risks and to comply with legislation, policies, regulations and guidelines issued by the CSA and central agencies. This audit project is one of the priorities of the members of the Audit Committee. This audit project will be held in the fall of and the report is expected to be completed by .

Thematic evaluation of gender-based analysis plus (GBA+) at the CSA

This thematic evaluation is to ensure that the practices of the Agency are aligned to the strategic priorities and direction of the federal government with respect to the GBA+, as well as identify best practices nationally and internationally which could be drawn upon, where applicable. To do this, the evaluation addresses the key evaluation issues specified by the Directive on Results (), i.e. relevance, effectiveness, and efficiency. This evaluation project is currently underway and is expected to be submitted for approval to the Performance Measurement and Evaluation Committee (PMEC) in .

2.2.4 Corporate Risks

Description

The CSA Integrated Risk Management Policy calls for the preparation of an annual Corporate Risk Profile.

Background

The last Corporate Risk Profile was released in . It highlighted the top 3 corporate risks of the agency as well as mitigation measures to reduce these risks.

Decision Point and Timelines

A proposed approach seeking to improve corporate risk management practices at the CSA, along with the confirmation of the top corporate risks for the year ahead will be discussed in the fall , and submitted to the Executive Committee for approval by .

Considerations

In a follow-up to the Corporate Risk Profile, the Executive Committee agreed to an assessment of the overall corporate risk management maturity level at the CSA. The services of a consulting firm were retained to do this assessment. The tools from this firm were also used to conduct a preliminary scan of the various corporate risks facing the CSA.

The maturity assessment led to the identification of some gaps in corporate risk management and the identification of best practices that could be implemented at the CSA to improve our maturity. In addition to confirming the identification of top corporate risks for , a forthcoming discussion on this topic will seek approval to introduce mechanisms to better understand and communicate the organization's risk appetite and to more systematically track key corporate risks.

Members of the Departmental Audit Committee have also expressed a desire to see improvement in the CSA's corporate risk management practices. It is believed that the proposed improvements largely address those expectations and the Audit Committee members are in agreement.

Advice

A more detailed briefing will be provided on the corporate risk profile to facilitate future decision making.

2.3 Key Stakeholder Engagement - Priority Calls / Meetings

2.3.1 Simon Kennedy – Deputy Minister, ISED

Why

An introductory phone call is recommended with your counterpart, Deputy Minister Simon Kennedy at ISED. DM Kennedy is the most senior civil servant within the ISED portfolio and while you do not have a direct reporting relationship, CSA is a member of the wider portfolio and strives to work collegially and collaboratively with ISED to support advancing its mandate.

When

It would be recommended that you seek to engage DM Kennedy within the first two weeks of your arrival at CSA.

Who

Should you wish to setup a call, your office should contact Anne-Marie Monteith, currently Chief of Staff to DM Kennedy, or Rachel Mainville-Dale a Senior Policy Advisor who tracks CSA files in the Deputy's office.

Considerations

[REDACTED]

As CSA President, you and DM Kennedy serve as co-chairs for the DM Governance Committee on Space (DMGCS).The Committee was created by Cabinet to provide oversight, accountability and decision making for significant space-related projects involving multiple departments, including the Radarsat Constellation Mission (RCM). The DMGCS is supported by the work programs of the DG and ADM-level Space Committees. Further to the commissioning of RCM satellites in orbit, focus of the space committees has shifted to a forward planning role for future interdepartmental space initiatives (such as Earth-Observation initiatives) and consideration of policy/regulatory issues not entrusted by law to specific Ministers.

As the CSA works to plan the larger future of the Government of Canada's space-based Earth Observation activities (see earlier hot issue note on this topic), [REDACTED].

Suggested Speaking Points
  • I look forward to working with you in my new role as we both support the delivery of Minister Bains' mandate.
  • CSA is focused on supporting the economic recovery and maintaining critical national space capabilities in the space sector. We have begun rolling out an additional $25M over two years via our contribution programs to significantly increase the number of business that will receive funding. We anticipate this additional funding supporting approximately 50 companies.
  • I look forward to working with you and the rest of the ISED team as CSA works to further define a way forward for the Government of Canada's Earth Observation activities and to work with you as co-chairs of the DM Governance Committee on Space (DMGCS).

2.3.2 The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Industry, Innovation and Science

We understand you've already had an opportunity to speak with Minister Bains.

2.3.3 NASA

NASA is the largest space agency in the world and is one of the CSA's closest international partners. Collaboration dates back over 50 years and continues to be strong in all space domains. See "Book 4 – Partners – NASA" for more information on the U.S. space program.

It will be important to engage your counterpart within the first week of your arrival. The CSA International Affairs team will make the necessary arrangements for this meeting. Further information to prepare for this meeting will be provided in subsequent briefing notes.

2.3.4 MacDonald Dettwiler and Associates Ltd

Why

MacDonald Dettwiler and Associates (MDALtd is a space systems integrator and the largest contributor to the Canadian space industry. They have a long-standing history of collaboration with the Canadian Space Agency on multiple major projects (e.g., robotic system for the ISS, RCM) accounting for more than 60% of all CSA spending on space projects. The previous President of the CSA met with MDA on a recurring basis to review the status of ongoing projects and discuss challenges.

When

It is recommended that a meeting with MDA take place as soon as possible.

Who:

Mike Greenley, MDA President
Mike.Greenley@mdacorporation.com
905-790-2800

Considerations
  • MacDonald Dettwiler and Associates (MDALtd, until recently was part of the Maxar company, is a global communications and information company providing advanced space technology solutions for commercial and government markets including satellites, space robotics, earth imagery, geospatial data and analytics.
  • On , Maxar announced it signed an agreement to sell its Canadian business MDA to a Toronto-based Northern Private Capital (NPS). The transaction closed on completing NPS's acquisition of MDA.
  • MDA is responsible for a number of major CSA-led and funded space initiatives including the development and operations of robotic systems for NASA's Shuttle Program and the International Space Station, the design and construction of the RADARSAT series of satellites, the Mars Exploration Science Rover prototype, the design and development of the Phoenix meteorological station, the first Canadian instrument that ever landed on the surface of Mars, the APXS instrument on the NASA Curiosity Mars rover and the design and construction of the laser altimeter instrument for OSIRIS-REx spacecraft which is currently orbiting the asteroid Bennu.
  • In , MDA was awarded the contract to maintain the Canadarm2 in support of the International Space Station program.
  • In , Canada announced its intent to enter into a contract MDA to build Canadarm3 in support of the Lunar Gateway for the NASA Artemis program.
  • MDA is also very active under the Canada-ESA Program in the field of telecommunications (antennas) and space exploration (ExoMars rover).
Suggested Speaking Points
  • I understand that MDA has worked closely with the Agency over the years and has been a key contributor to the Canadian space program.
  • I am very much looking forward to working with you and hope we can meet on a regular basis, similar to the arrangement you had with my predecessor.
MDA Status
  • You've been in the hands of NPC for a little over six months now, how has that transition been? Can you share any insights about NPC's vision for the future of space in Canada?
Gateway
  • Canadarm3 will be a critical milestone to support Canada's contributions to the Gateway and Artemis program. We are proud to have MDA on board for the project and we are excited to partner once again with you in what will become another icon of Canadian innovation and a source of pride.
  • We want to make sure that we can leverage the Canadarm3 project to support the growth of the Canadian space industry, but also to maximize technology transfers and commercialization opportunities for MDA and its suppliers. As such, I would like to hear your vision about the Value Proposition that you will develop under the ITB policy and where you see the intersections between Canadarm3 requirements and commercial opportunities.

2.3.5 Honeywell Aerospace

Why

Honeywell Aerospace (HA) is the world's largest supplier of avionics and a leading supplier of aircraft engines, and related products and services for aircraft manufacturers, airlines, aircraft operators, military services, as well as for defence and space contractors.

When

It is recommended that a meeting with HA take place within the first hundred days of the Presidents arrival.

Who:

Marina Mississian, Sr Director Space Payloads
613-591-7777 ext: 4322
Marina.Mississian@honeywell.com

Considerations
  • Owned by Honeywell International, HA is headquartered in Glendale, Arizona. In , HA acquired Cambridge, Ontario based COM DEV International Ltd. (COM DEV).
  • HA's Canadian activities include a number of COM DEV projects such as the Fine Guidance Sensor (FGS) and the Near-Infrared Imager and Slitless Spectrograph (NIRISS) for the James Web Space Telescope (JWST), construction of M3MSat and supply of the Automatic Identification System receivers for the three Radarsat Constellation Mission spacecraft through Honeywell Aerospace's U.K. division (formerly COM DEV Europe).
  • In , HA has been awarded two contracts totaling nearly $36 million; 34.5 million for the design, build and implementation of the QEYSSat demonstration satellite and related quantum ground station and, $1.38 million Phase A (definition phase) contract for the WildFireSat mission. Honeywell [REDACTED] as they are the owner of the secondary payload that will be onboard the satellite. The secondary payload is a space-based optical communications technology demonstration payload.
  • [REDACTED]
  • HA is also very active under the Canada-ESA Program in the field of telecommunications.
Suggested Speaking Points
Honeywell Aerospace Future in Canada
  • Could you provide an update on the company's plans for Canadian operations in the coming years?

2.3.6 Telesat

Why

Telesat Canada (Telesat) is one of the largest commercial communications satellite operators in the world and is the largest in North America. Telesat is currently developing a major global constellation of 298 low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, dubbed Telesat LEO, to meet the surging demand for low latency broadband applications around the world. The estimated US$3 billion manufacturing mandate for Telesat LEO has drawn bids from major satellite manufacturers such as Airbus Defence and Space, Thales Alenia Space and Maxar Technologies.

When

It is recommended that a meeting with Telesat take place as soon as possible given the company's imminent decision on the Telesat LEO manufacturing mandate and its potential impact on the Canadian space sector. A bilat could be schedule for late September or early October in Ottawa.

Who:

Daniel S. Goldberg, President and CEO
dgoldberg@telesat.com
613-748-8700 ext: 2700

Considerations
  • Through the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF), the Government of Canada has provided Telesat with C$85M for R&D related to its Telesat LEO project.
  • In addition, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Telesat to secure broadband internet capacity over Canada from planned LEO satellite constellation.
  • Under the MOU, the Government of Canada intends to commit up to $600M over 10 years, subject to reaching definitive terms of a contribution agreement.
  • [REDACTED]
  • Currently, Telesat LEO is planned to begin deployment in and be fully deployed by .
  • Telesat has signed launch contracts with Blue Origin for multiple missions on the firm's New Glenn rocket, and on Relativity Space's Terran 1 small satellite launcher.
  • Telesat is planning to build 50 ground-based gateway stations around the globe to link its constellation to the internet.
  • Based in Ottawa, Ontario, the company has over 400 employees, most of whom live and work in Canada.
  • Telesat currently owns and operates a global fleet of 14 geostationary communications satellites that provides video distribution and direct-to-home ("DTH") video, as well as end-to-end communications services using both satellites and hybrid satellite-ground networks.
  • In Canada, Telesat is the prime provider of capacity to the nation's two leading direct-to-home television service companies, Bell TV and Shaw Direct.
  • Telesat is a pioneer in satellite communications. In , as a crown corporation, Telesat launched Anik A1 first domestic communications satellite.
  • Privately held, Telesat's principal shareholders are Canada's Public Sector Pension Investment Board (PSPIB) with 37.3 percent and Loral Space & Communications Inc. (Loral) with 62.7 percent. PSPIB controls 67.4 percent of the voting interest in Telesat.
  • Recent media reports have indicated that Loral is interested in divesting its stake in Telesat through a potential initial public offering.
Suggested Speaking Points
  • I am very interested to hear the latest on your proposed Telesat LEO constellation.

2.3.7 European Space Agency

ESA is one of the CSA's closest international partners. Collaboration with ESA dates back to and has recently been formally renewed until through a treaty level cooperation agreement. See "Book 4 – Partners – ESA" for more information on Canada's partnership with ESA.

It will be important to engage your counterpart within the first 3-6 months of your arrival. The CSA International Affairs team will make the necessary arrangements for this meeting. Further information to prepare for this meeting will be provided in subsequent briefing notes.

2.3.8 Space Advisory Board Chair

Why

It is recommended that you have a call with Dr. Marie Lucy Stojak, chair of the Space Advisory Board (SAB). While the future of the SAB is currently unclear, it has previously been a key link to the broader space sector and has provided important advice and inputs into the development of the Space Strategy.

When

It would be recommended that you seek to engage Dr. Stojak within the first three weeks of your arrival at CSA.

Who

Should you wish to setup a call, the Director General, Policy will approach Dr. Stojak and work with your administrative staff to identify a time for a call.

Considerations

The genesis of the SAB was in the Aerospace Review led by the Honourable David Emerson. A key recommendation included in the review was the creation of a "space advisory council" which could "…advise the Minister of Industry on Canadian Space Program priorities and plans…" and consist of members from industry, the research and academic communities, provinces and territories, and federal departments and agencies. A Board, reporting to the then Minister of Industry, was originally stood up in and then renewed with new membership in .

Aligned with the Innovation Agenda under development at that time, new members were asked by Minister Bains to provide advice on Canada's long-term priorities for space to inform the creation of a space strategy, including outreach and consultation to encourage a growing and sustainable space sector in the long-term that: inspires Canadians and attracts talent; contributes to scientific advancement and the development of emerging technologies; and, supports companies to scale-up, as well as clean growth. CSA and ISED supported significant cross-country consultations by the SAB, culminating in the release of a consultation report in that greatly informed the content of the space strategy released in .

Since its renewal in , the secretariat for the SAB is housed within Industry Sector at ISED. CSA plays a supportive role to ISED and has provided information and regular updates on space program activities to the Board whenever they have met (approximately once or twice per year in person, with almost monthly calls taking place until just prior to the pandemic).

The mandate for the current board members expired on . [REDACTED].

Membership of the wider board includes:

  • Dr. James Drummond, Professor, Dalhousie University
  • William MacDonald Evans, President, W. MacDonald Evans Consulting Inc.
  • Stéphane Germain, President and CEO, GHGSat Inc.
  • Dr. Douglas Hamilton, Clinical Associate Professor of Internal Medicine and Adjunct Professor of Electrical Engineering, University of Calgary
  • Kate Howells, Global Community Outreach Consultant, The Planetary Society
  • Michelle Mendes, Executive Director, Canadian Space Commerce Association
  • Dr. Gordon Osinski, Associate Professor, Western University and Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Chair in Earth and Space Exploration
  • Michael Pley, President, Pley Consulting Inc. and Chair of the Aerospace Industries Association of Canada's Space Committee
  • Dr. Afzal Suleman, Canada Research Chair in Computational and Experimental Mechanics and Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Director of the Centre for Aerospace Research, University of Victoria
  • Christine Tovee, independent consultant
Suggested Speaking Points
  • I would like to thank you and the other Board members for the strong advice you have delivered to the government in advance of the release of the Space Strategy and the key link to the sector you have continued to provide leading into the pandemic.
  • [REDACTED], I look forward to developing a strong relationship with you and your members. I look forward to other informal opportunities to engage and benefit from your experience.

If pressed on future mandate renewal:

  • I am currently working to engage multiple stakeholders and officials as I settle into my new job at the CSA. [REDACTED]

2.3.9 CSA Science Advisory Committees

Why

The mandate of the space science advisory committees is to provide independent feedback to the CSA on its scientific disciplines and their associated programs, and to foster communications between CSA and the scientific establishment.

When

The new President should consult with the Science Advisor first for meeting options; the earliest possible opportunity is recommended considering its structure is under review and the number of important science infrastructure plans taking shape at the moment.

Who

Sarah Gallagher, Science Advisor to the President

Considerations

The Science Advisory Committees are standing committees whose specific terms of reference are tuned to the culture and community (for example primarily academic or mixed academic and government) of the relevant science field. They are therefore prime vehicles for two-way communication with research communities, but not all are equally effective in their ability to act as communication conduits; in addition, the membership of those committees is not widely known or easily accessible. The revision of their structure is under review with recommendations from the Science Advisor expected in Fall .

2.3.10 Key Other Government Departments

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), Department of National Defence (DND), Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) are the CSA's closest federal government partners, particularly in the area of space-based earth observation. See "Book 4 – Partners – Government of Canada" for more information on their use of space and they and the CSA work together.

It will be important to engage your counterparts within the first month of your arrival. The CSA Government and Academic Relations as well as the Strategic Relations Team will make the necessary arrangements for these meetings. Further information to prepare for these meeting will be provided in subsequent briefings.

2.3.11 Key Small and Medium Enterprises

The following companies are a selection of Canada's most prominent space small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Initial speaking points have been provided. More detailed information and speaking points will be provided prior to any meetings.

2.3.11.1 Mission Control Space Services
Why

Mission Control Space Services (MCSS) is an Ottawa-based start-up company founded in which focuses on development of spaceflight software for mission operations, onboard autonomy, and artificial intelligence, industry consulting, and education and outreach projects.

When

Teleconference at your convenience.

Who:

Ewan Reid, President & CEO
613-219-1992
ewan@missioncontrolspaceservices.com

Considerations

MCSS' offers both products (software) and services (mission control operations), ranging from portable software for robotic missions, transition between flight software development and embedded environments, custom mission applications and software development kits for robotic and lunar applications. MCSS is well known for its Mission Control Academy, which is a simulated rover mission that challenges participants (elementary school and university students, as well as businesses) to design and operate a planetary exploration mission, culminating in an opportunity to remotely drive a real rover prototype in a Mars-like environment.

The company has been increasing efforts to expand internationally and has been an active participant in CSA-led commercial missions abroad and other CSA-led industry initiatives. For example, MCSS were one of the selected pitches for the inaugural Investment Space event in .

Suggested Speaking Points
  • Based on your experience as a space start-up in Canada, what new programs or services can the CSA offer to you and your fellow space start-ups to help scale-up and nurture our domestic space companies?
  • Could you lay out your company's plans for the next few years in terms of next generation of spaceflight control products or services and new export markets with high potential?
2.3.11.2 Kepler Communications
Why

Kepler Communications is a dynamic start-up space company based in Toronto that designs, builds, launches, and operates its own fleet of low-cost, rapidly-deployable nanosatellites. It is a fast-growing company that has attracted significant investments from Canadian and international investors.

When

Teleconference at your convenience.

Who:

Mina Mitry, President & CEO
437-537-5371 ext: 201
mmitry@kepler.space

Considerations

Kepler represents an excellent example of how CSA investment into an early-stage technology was leveraged to enable considerable company growth. Since the initial $200,000 investment through the CSA's STDP program Kepler managed to secure $21M in private investments, a leverage factor of 105.

Kepler's market advantage is in small, low cost and easily replaceable nanosatellites (size of a shoebox). The company currently has 2 satellites on orbit and plans to build a 140 satellites constellation for enterprise secure communications services for terrestrial customers, and act as a space infrastructure provider (backhaul) to other satellite communications operators. In October 2019, Kepler received $1M in funding from CSA Space Technology Development Program (STDP) for the next generation of nano-satellites.

Suggested Speaking Points
  • Could you lay out your company's plans for the upcoming few years in terms of next steps in building and launching your constellation and new export markets with high potential?
  • Based on your experience as a space company in Canada, what do you think the CSA can do differently in terms of developing and nurturing our domestic space industry?
2.3.11.3 GHGSat
Why

GHGSat, founded in 2012 in Montreal, has rapidly evolved to become one the world's leading developers of space-based remote sensing of greenhouse gases (GHG) and air quality gases (AQG) from industrial sites.

When

Teleconference at your convenience or during a fall industry event.

Who:

Stéphane Germain, Founder & President
514-847-9474
stephane.germain@ghgsat.com

Considerations

GHGSat has launched its first high-resolution mircrosatellite (15kg) in 2016, and is currently awaiting launch of its second satellite. The value proposition of GHGSat is emissions monitoring data, collected by its patented spectrometer technology, that is 100 times more precise and comes at one 100th of the cost of any competitor, that the company can provide at any location globally. The data is key for monitoring GHG emissions (CO2, CH4, SOx, etc.), and as such, can help in reporting on UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The company aims to provide owners of industrial facilities with the ability to monitor at point emissions, anywhere in the world, in near-real-time.

GHGSat has received US$22.5M in four funding rounds from Sustainable Development Technology Canada, Government of Quebec, Business Development Canada Venture Capital and several prominent international investors. In October 2019, GHGSat received $1M in funding from CSA Space Technology Development Program (STDP) to improve Order of magnitude performance on its WAF-P spectrometer.

Suggested Speaking Points
  • Could you share with me what are the company's plans for the next few years in international partnerships, be that with governments or private companies?
  • Based on your experience as a space company in Canada, what do you think the CSA can do differently in terms of developing and nurturing our domestic space industry?
2.3.11.4 ABB
Why

ABB's Measurement and Analytic Business unit's space activities, is Canada's largest supplier of space-based atmospheric optical sensors.

When

Teleconference at your convenience.

Who:

Marc Corriveau, General Manager
marc.corriveau@ca.abb.com

Considerations

Over the last 30 years, ABB Canada (part of a Swiss-Swedish multinational ABB Corporation headquartered in Zurich) has been a reliable contractor for the delivery of a variety of spectral imaging systems and instruments. ABB, located in Quebec, has long relationship with CSA and has received multiple contracts valued at several million dollars, over the years; recent examples are $750K STDP contract and a $1.75M contract for the Space Infrared Telescope for Cosmology and Astrophysics (SPICA) proposed mission. ABB's instruments are critical on many satellites, including Canadian Science Satellite (SCISAT), NASA's polar orbit weather satellites (JPSS), Japanese GOSAT and many others. In past meetings with the CSA, the firm has emphasized the critical role of CSA's STDP funding in their success.

ABB's space products and technologies include: optical instruments, hyperspectral imagers, flight calibration devices, optical ground support equipment, software simulators and data analysis.

Suggested Speaking Points
  • Could you lay out what are the company's plans for the next few years in space technologies and markets?
  • ABB has been an active participant in many CSA-led activities for many years. What type of initiatives are the most useful and what new export markets you plan on tackling?
2.3.11.5 NGC Aerospace
Why

NGC Aerospace, based in Sherbrooke QC, develops software for mobile systems with the aim of increasing their autonomy, performance, reliability and safety while reducing their development and operational costs.

When

Teleconference at your convenience.

Who:

Jean De Lafontaine, President
819-348-9483 ext: 221
ngc@ngcaerospace.com

Considerations

The mobile systems of interest include Earth observation satellites, planetary orbiters, landers, rovers and pilotless aerial vehicles. NGC's guidance, navigation and control software has cumulatively over 40 years of successful operation in orbit and has contributed to the technologies enabling the high autonomy, agility and accuracy of future aerospace systems. The company also develops artificial vision and Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC) systems for autonomous vehicles for space, aeronautical and terrestrial applications. The algorithms, simulators, real-time software and integrated systems designed by NGC aim at increasing the autonomy, performance, reliability and safety of these vehicles while reducing their operational costs. NGC's main clients are international and national space agencies, governmental agencies, and North American and European aerospace companies.

In recent years, NGC Aerospace has benefited from CSA-led industry initiatives. For example, following the CSA Industry Days with [REDACTED].

Suggested Speaking Points
  • Could you lay out what are the company's plans for the next few years in space technologies and markets?
  • NGC Aerospace has been an active participants in many CSA-led activities over the last few years. Would you have any comments or ideas for the CSA on how to improve our initiatives for the industry?
  • Based on your experience as a space company in Canada, what do you think the CSA can do differently in terms of developing and nurturing our domestic space industry?
2.3.11.6 C-Core
Why

C-Core is one of the largest space organisation in Atlantic Canada and is home to LOOKNorth, a Canadian Centre of Excellence for remote sensing innovation.

When

Teleconference at your convenience.

Who:

Paul Griffin, President & CEO
709-864-8499
paul.griffin@c-core.ca

Considerations

Established in 1975 to address challenges facing oil and gas development in offshore Newfoundland & Labrador and other ice-prone regions, C-Core is a Not-for-Profit (NFP) organization associated with the Memorial University in St. John's. C-Core supported some 1200 undergraduate, graduate and post-doctoral students and has served as an incubator for 18 new technology companies.

C-CORE conducts applied research and technology development to help improve safety, efficiency and cost-effectiveness for clients in the resource development, transportation and aerospace / defense sectors. C-CORE also delivers commercial contracts, such as the 2019 $10M contract with Airbus to design, develop, build and install the Biomass transponder for the European Space Agency's (ESA) Biomass Mission.

Suggested Speaking Points
  • The C-Core model of combining NFP and commercial activities is unique in terms of structure; would you be able to share some insights on how this model contributes to your successes?
  • Could you lay out what are the company's plans for the next few years in space research and new markets?
2.3.11.7 Canadensys
Why

Canadensys is a space company that has positioned itself as a key supplier and technology developer to the emerging commercial lunar and deep space exploration markets.

When

Teleconference at your convenience.

Who

Christian Sallaberger, President & CEO
647-887-8575
christian.sallaberger@canadensys.com

Considerations

Canadensys Aerospace, based in Caledon ON, develops components and instruments for space missions, and is also a systems and services provider with an emphasis on low cost, high-reliability civil and defence space applications for satellites, as well as landers and rovers for the Moon and Mars. Its market advantage is in affordable micro- and nano-technologies for space exploration and space missions.

Over the last few years, the company has benefitted from CSA-led industry initiatives to become suppliers for important international firms such as [REDACTED] and Moon Express. In , the company received $500k in STDP funding for its Nano-Immersive Situational Awareness system for orbital and terrestrial infrastructures.

Suggested Speaking Points
  • Could you lay out what are the company's plans for the next few years in building international partnerships, be that with governments or private industry?
  • Based on your experience as a space company in Canada, what do you think the CSA can do differently in terms of developing and nurturing our domestic space industry?
2.3.11.8 Magellan Aerospace
Why

Magellan Aerospace is a major Canadian space and defence company. The company is well-known for its expertise in sounding rockets, suborbital payloads, Space Shuttle and ISS experiments, spacecraft subsystems, and microsatellite and small satellite buses.

When

Teleconference at your convenience.

Who:

Corey Mack - Group Leader, Engineering and Space Systems
204-775-8331
corey.mack@magellan.aero

Considerations

Magellan is headquartered in Mississauga, ON, and employs over 3,000 people in its facilities located across Canada, the U.S., Europe and India. Magellan has been active in space for over 50 years with its Black Brant suborbital rockets which are used for space science experiments and are still sold to NASA. Magellan Aerospace, Winnipeg (MA-W) is an operating division of Magellan and the core location of the company's space activities.

Since , Magellan has been involved in the development and manufacturing of buses for small satellites, and has become the most important space hardware manufacturer in the Prairies. Its space business relies almost entirely on government projects. Notably, Magellan delivered three satellite buses, along with payload module structures, software, ground support equipment, and launch vehicle adaptors to MDA for Radarsat Constellation Mission (RCM), the CSA flagman mission. The CSA has allocated more than $130 million to Magellan since , which includes $43 million for projects on small satellites such as SCISAT-1 and CASSIOPE.

Suggested Speaking Points
  • I understand Magellan is actively exploring new business partnerships. Can you share any interesting future projects?
  • I note that the trend in the commercial satellite communications market is to move from procuring large complex geostationary satellites to smaller lower cost low Earth orbit satellites. How did this major change affect Magellan's business and how are you planning to adapt to it?
2.3.11.9 PCI Geomatics
Why

PCI Geomatics is one of the largest Canadian companies in the Earth Observation downstream applications sector.

When

Teleconference at your convenience.

Who:

June McAlarey, President and CEO
mcalarey@pcigeomatics.com

Considerations

PCI Geomatics is a world leader in earth observation-based software and offers solutions to a multitude of industries and geomatics communities in over 135 countries. PCI Geomatics was founded in and has approximately 80 employees. It is headquartered in Markham, ON. It has facilities in Gatineau (Quebec), Arlington (Virginia) and Beijing (China).

The company is a world leader in geo-imaging products and solutions for Earth Observation for oil and gas, mining, transportation, environmental and agricultural applications, developing software applications from data obtained from satellites or aircraft. Its value proposition is in proprietary algorithms that allow to merge, enhance and leverage images from data obtained from SAR (synthetic aperture radars) and optical satellites.

Suggested Speaking Points
  • Congratulations on your recent appointment as the President and CEO of PCI Geomatics.
  • PCI Geomatics has had a lot of success internationally over the years. Are there any insights that you can share on what has helped you achieve this success.
  • Could you lay out what are the company's plans for the next few years in EO applications and new export markets? Can you share any interesting future projects?

2.3.12 AIAC Space Committee Chair

Why

The Aerospace Industries Association of Canada (AIAC) represents Canada's aerospace manufacturing and services sector that promotes and facilitates Canadian competitiveness in the global aerospace industry. The AIAC Space Committee works closely with the AIAC Board and federal partners (including CSA and ISED) to increase the productivity and competitiveness of the Canadian space industry.

When

At a convenient time in the fall.

Who:

Jim Quick, AIAC President and CEO
jquick@aiac.ca

Chair of the AIAC Space Committee
Chris Dodd, Director, Airbus Defence and Space
chris.dodd@airbus.com

Considerations

AIAC is a member-driven, not-for-profit, national organization representing Canada's aerospace manufacturing and services sector that promotes and facilitates Canadian competitiveness in the global aerospace industry. The AIAC has six (6) technical committees that are central to its policy and advocacy functions, one of which is the Space Committee. AIAC's Space Committee reports to the AIAC Board of Director's and provides guidance, support and recommendations on policy and programmatic issues impacting the competitiveness of Canada's space industry.

Suggested Speaking Points
Annual Canadian Aerospace Summit
  • I understand that you have had to cancel your annual Canadian Aerospace Summit, originally planned for November. Hopefully will see its resumption.
AIAC's Vision Report (Published Spring )
  • AIAC's Vision , published last spring emphasizes the priority to "Maximize Canada's leadership at the forefront of space" was emphasized. This aligns well with Canada's New Space Strategy. How can we work together to make this happen?
AIAC Aerospace Recommendations
  • This , AIAC released six recommendations for the Canadian Aerospace ecosystem to support long-term stability and growth in the sector. Recommendation four, "establish a new long-term investment to support and foster essential manufacturing supply chains through the market transformation ahead" has specifically caught my attention. Can you provide any additional details on this recommendation?

2.3.13 Canadian Aeronautics and Space Institute

Why

The Canadian Aeronautics and Space Institute (CASI) is the largest space professionals institution in Canada. They hold an annual ASTRO event, the biggest Canadian space conference, focused primarily on industry and academic-related topics.

When

TBC

Who

Geoff Languedoc, President
geoffrey@casi.ca

Considerations

The Canadian Aeronautics and Space Institute is a non-profit professional scientific and technical organization devoted to the advancement of the art, science and engineering of aeronautics, astronautics and associated technologies in Canada.

The Institute, created in , consists of 15 Branches that serve about 1,600 members in major cities across Canada, some hosted by universities and colleges.

The CSA has been a corporate member of CASI for many years, alongside other federal departments and agencies (NRCan, NRC, Transport Canada), major Canadian space companies and numerous universities (including the University of Toronto, the University of Calgary, and McGill University).

Since , CASI and CSA have established a mutually beneficial partnership whereby we collaborate in the organisation of the CASI Astro annual Conferences.

Suggested Speaking Points
  • What are your organisation's plans in the short- and medium-terms.
  • What do you see as the major short-, medium- and long-term challenges facing the Canadian space sector?
  • What do you feel the CSA can offer to help nurture our domestic space companies?
  • Are there any academia-related issued that you would like to raise?
  • Are there any pressing CSA issues that you would like to raise?

2.3.14 Satellite Canada Innovation Network

Why

The Satellite Canada Innovation Network, or Satellite Canada (SatCan), is a Canadian member-based, not-for-profit organization that provides a network for Canadian space companies to connect for commercial, skills and technology development as well as access to new markets. SatCan also acts as a forum for consolidating its members' views on strategic issues facing the industry and is a key stakeholder for understanding the perspective of Canadian space firms, particularly those of SMEs.

When

Teleconference at your convenience or during a fall industry event.

Who:

Michelle Mendes, Executive Director
416-500-7008
michelle@satcan.ca

Ryan Anderson, Principal and Director
ryan@satcan.ca

Considerations

SatCan's services range from providing engineering skills and strategy, introductions to key industry players or financing organizations, to practical support like writing technical proposal responses or product plans.

SatCan counts a number of senior Canadian space industry leaders as part of their team or Advisory Board. Three of the Government of Canada's Space Advisory Board members play key roles with SatCan: Michelle Mendes is the Executive Director and on the Board of Directors; Christine Tovee is on the Board of Directors; and, Michael Pley is on the Advisory Board.

SatCan's members include a number of high-profile Canadian SMEs, including SkyWatch, Kepler Communications, Mission Control Space Services and Sinclair Interplanetary. SatCan also counts Leonardo DRS, the Canadian division of Italian aerospace and defense giant Leonardo S.p.A., as a member.

SatCan currently administers the SatCan Space Support Program (SSP) with the National Research Council's (NRC) Industrial Research Assistance Program to help Canadian SMEs access the growing space sector. SatCan also helps administer the Optical SatCom Consortium with the NRC as part of its High-throughput and Secure Networks Challenge program to develop next generation technologies to provide broadband internet to every person in Canada. In , SatCan, with the funding from Global Affairs Canada, developed and operated the Canadian Pavilion at the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Washington DC. They are slated to provide similar service at the virtual IAC event.

Suggested Speaking Points
  • What do you see as the major short-, medium- and long- term challenges facing the Canadian space industry?
  • What do you feel the CSA can offer to help nurture our domestic space companies?

2.4 Communications and Media

2.4.1 Hot issue - RCM Data Access

This issue is monitored closely by media interested in space. RCM was launched over a year ago. [REDACTED]. Regular communications will be made to inform interested users about the vetting applications and accessibility processes. More details on this topic are available above (2.1.7).

2.4.2 Potential Media Engagements

The CSA's Communication Directorate will work with you to develop a media engagement plan.

2.5 Key Events Overview

2.5.1 International Events

There are two major annual international space events that attract international heads of agencies and executives from various space companies – the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) and the Space Symposium. These events serve as an opportunity to participate on international panels, meet counterpart space agencies and foreign companies, as well as to hold student-related events. The CSA President typically speaks at these events.

The Space Symposium is a U.S.-focused event and has been cancelled this year because of Covid-19. The IAC will continue to take place from -, through a virtual means, with a reduced agenda and number of events. Further information to prepare for this meeting will be provided in subsequent briefing notes.

2.5.2 Domestic Event - CASI Astro

Description of event

The Canadian Aeronautics and Space Institute (CASI) is the biggest space professionals institution in Canada. They hold an annual ASTRO event, Canadian largest space conference focused mainly on industry and academic related issues.

Date/Location

Due to COVID-19, CASI ASTRO will be held virtually this year, with events over a number of days. For example, DND is hosting a workshop on Space Domain Awareness on 5 and 12 November and CSA Policy will be hosting a Government of Canada panel on Regulatory Modernization on .

Level of participation

Senior leaders from industry and government usually attend, while academia is represented by both professors and students.

Other CSA Participants

CSA participants from all levels from Programs and Policy usually attend.

Considerations

The organising committee is comprised of industry, CSA personnel, and academia which gives CSA the opportunity to have a say in the program.

In past iterations, the CSA President has often used this venue to update on CSA activities or announce strategic initiatives during his keynote address. It is also a great opportunity to interact with senior space stakeholders from industry, academia, and government.

One of the panel sessions will be led by the Government of Canada and will focus on the topic of regulatory modernization. This will involve participation from the CSA Policy, TC (launch), GAC/IGN (Remote Sensing Space Systems Act), and ISED (Spectrum). This provides an opportunity to update on the Government's work; the last engagement with industry was during the SpaceQ Regulatory Roundtable in Ottawa in Fall .

Proposed Program Outline

The program is a combination of plenary sessions and technical sessions including workshops and panels. The CSA President usually delivers a keynote speech and the DGs participate is a panel together.

CASI ASTRO 's theme is 'Space for Business' where the focus will be on Canadian capabilities given the growing number of small- and medium-sized companies. A workshop is also due to be held the day prior to the conference with the theme: Space Situational Awareness (SSA) and Space Domain Awareness (SDA).

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