Regina, Saskatchewan, October 17, 2001 – The Canadian Space Agency (CSA)
announced today at GeoSASK 2001 the awarding of seven contracts, worth more
than $1 million, to Canada’s space industry for developing hyperspectral
processing systems and applications. These contracts have been awarded to
MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates, Atlantis Scientific, Borstad
Associates, Lockheed Martin Canada, Tecsult and MIR Télédétection.
“Our investment through these innovative Canadian space companies will
position Canada as one of the leaders in earth imaging research,” said the
Honorable Brian Tobin, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for the
Canadian Space Agency. “Partnerships guaranteed through this investment in
the acquisition of knowledge, expertise and talent will translate in our
ability to compete efficiently in new niche markets throughout the world.”
“Canada’s long term commitment to Earth Observation has developed over time
from the design of sensors to development of applications,” said Dr.
Virendra Jha, CSA’s Space Technologies Director General. “And there is no
doubt that the Canadian Space Agency will continue to support the Canadian
space industry in key sectors such as remote sensing and above all in
hyperspectral.”
The projects awarded today through the Earth Observation Applications
Development Program (EOADP), are to support leading edge Canadian space
companies that are also bearing their share of risks in developing and
commercializing innovative processing systems and applications. These
innovations will have a major impact in remote sensing, vegetation land
cover classification and mineral exploration.
Funding for this project was provided for in the February 2000 budget and is
therefore built into the existing financial framework.
About GeoSASK 2001 (http://www.geosask.ca/)
The GeoSASK 2001 conference focuses on Spatial Information Management and
GIS, Harnessing the Spatial Potential of the Internet, new Automated Land
Titles Processes, E-Business, etc. Participants are to broaden their
knowledge of provincial, national and international developments in GIS and
land information systems, and explore opportunities for improving
productivity in their own organizations.
About the Canadian Space Agency (CSA)
Established in 1989 and situated in Saint-Hubert, Quebec, the Canadian Space
Agency coordinates all aspects of the Canadian Space Program. Through its
Space Knowledge, Applications and Industry Development business line, the
CSA delivers services involving: Earth and the Environment; Space Science;
Human Presence in Space; Satellite Communications; Generic Space
Technologies; Space Qualification Services and Awareness. The Canadian Space
Agency is at the forefront of the development and application of space
knowledge for the benefit of Canadians and humanity.
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Information
Carole Duval
Media Relations
Canadian Space Agency
(450) 926-4370
carole.duval@space.gc.ca
http://www.space.gc.ca
