Ottawa, November 13, 2002 – The Canadian Space Agency (CSA) announced today
the awarding of six contracts, worth a total of $930,000, to Canadian space
companies for developing generic small-satellite and micro-satellite buses
to meet the future needs of the Canadian space program.

These contracts, announced at the ASTRO 2002 conference, have been awarded
to Bristol Aerospace Limited, EMS Technologies, COM DEV International, Space
Quest, and Dynacon (see
<http://www.space.gc.ca/whatsnew/releases/backgr/2002/021113.asp> – for more
information).

This announcement marks the launch by the CSA of a small and micro-satellite
program that will oversee the activities of Canadian satellite missions for
the next ten years. To reduce costs, the program includes the development of
a satellite platform designed to accommodate both scientific and
technology-demonstration missions.

“These leading-edge Canadian space companies will develop and improve small
and micro-satellite bus design and integration capabilities in Canada,” said
Allan Rock, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for the Canadian
Space Agency. “They will also increase the science and technology content
on future satellite missions, fostering public-private sector partnerships
and alliances – thus reinforcing Canada’s commitment to a vigorous
knowledge-based economy.”

“From Alouette-1 to SCISAT, Canada has championed excellence in space, from
the design of sensors to the development of buses, antennas and
applications,” said Dr. Virendra Jha, Director General of the CSA’s Space
Technologies. “The Canadian Space Agency will continue to support the
Canadian satellite industry so as to provide low-cost access to space for
science and technology missions.”

About the CSA

Established in 1989 with its headquarters 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; Space Technology; Space Qualification Services; Space
Awareness and Education. The Canadian Space Agency is at the forefront of
the development and application of space knowledge for the benefit of
Canadians and humanity.

For more information, please contact:

Monique Billette
Senior Media Relations Officer
Canadian Space Agency
Tel.: (450) 926-4370
monique.billette@space.gc.ca