New federal investment of $54 million in domestically developed space technology is expected to support more than 175 jobs.
Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Navdeep Bains announced the investments on Dec. 15 as part of the Government of Canada’s long-term commitment to the International Space Station (ISS) and to prepare for the next steps in deep-space exploration.
“Our government is committed to maintaining our country’s leading edge in space robotics,” Bains said in making the announcement. “This funding is a direct investment in Canadian firms to research, develop talent and remain globally competitive. Canada is a space-faring nation, and we’re committed to supporting this growing industry and the middle-class jobs it creates.”
ISS partners rely on Canadian robots to maintain and operate the Station in space and to resupply astronauts on board. These funds will support the ISS’s ongoing robotic operations with Canadarm2 and Dextre.
Building on Canada’s world-class leadership in space robotics, this investment will also pave the way for the development of innovative technologies including a next-generation robotic arm and rovers that could be part of future missions on or around the Moon.
The Canadian Space Agency says the investments will support 175 well-paying, middle-class jobs, including nine opportunities for students to gain experience that will help them develop the in-demand skills for the jobs of tomorrow.
This initiative is part of the Government of Canada’s Innovation and Skills Plan.
Source: Canadian Space Agency
Photo © Canadian Space Agency
