Commercial space launch
Canada has a long history in space, and the Canadian space sector is internationally recognized for excellence. Commercial space launches are a natural evolution of space applications and exploration. The Government of Canada is committed to supporting commercial space launches in Canada. This commitment will help make the Canadian space sector more competitive in the global space economy.
The Canadian Space Agency's (CSA's) flagship Space Technology Development Program has been supporting Canadian space companies since 2012. Focusing on early-stage development, it allows companies with promising ideas to design, build and test their technologies according to their business development plans. Since , Canadian launch technology companies have accessed $9.9 million in funding from the program. The CSA is proud to have supported our Canadian industry in the field of launch technology.
Canada's involvement in commercial space launch
2023
In January, the Government of Canada announced its intent to enable commercial space launch activities that are safe, secure and environmentally sustainable, under existing legislation and regulations, on a case-by-case basis.
2024
In August, the Government of Canada announced the conclusion of negotiations on a Technology Safeguards Agreement (TSA) with the United States. The Agreement will establish the legal and technical safeguards needed to allow the use of U.S. space launch technology, expertise and data for space launches in Canada while ensuring the proper handling of sensitive U.S. technology. The TSA is a major milestone that will help pave the way for a thriving commercial space launch industry in Canada. This development not only enhances the sector's diversity but also strengthens its global competitiveness, thereby reinforcing Canada's position as a leader in space exploration and technology.
2026
In February, Transport Canada announced the development of a temporary program to make sure that launches are in the public interest and done safely and responsibly. The CSA is one of 15 federal departments and agencies that supports Transport Canada to authorize commercial space launch from Canada. The CSA provides both policy and technical space subject matter expertise.
In April, the Minister of Transport and the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, the Honourable Steven MacKinnon, introduced the Canadian Space Launch Act to deliver Canadian sovereign space launch capabilities. The Act would enable the government to regulate and oversee space launch and re-entry activities from Canadian territory, while providing regulatory certainty, supporting investment and infrastructure development, and helping Canada meet its international obligations.