Longueuil, Quebec - May 18, 2005 - Geoff Regan, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans and Minister responsible for Nova Scotia, announced today on behalf of the Honourable David L. Emerson, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), that Martec Limited was awarded $293,043 for research and development through the CSA's Space Technology Development Program (STDP). This investment will help ensure Canada maintains a global niche market advantage in the design of emerging space technologies and applications. "These contracts will encourage Atlantic Canada's emerging space industry to continue to develop leading-edge space technologies, helping make the Canadian Space Program a driver in the growth of our nation's dynamic economy," said Minister Regan. Martec will develop structural materials for a number of space applications, which could possibly be used in future construction operations on the Moon and Mars. Martec will also integrate its Gasless Combustion Heating Element Technology for Microgravity Science Research. Other pioneering space technologies to be developed through the STDP include: A proposal of technology to enable the self-repair of cracks and holes in spacecraft A drilling and sample acquisition system to study the subsurface composition of a planet-this also has applications on Earth A vision system for on-orbit 3-D imaging of spacecrafts and satellites A compact, lightweight, low-power, laser system for use in planetary exploration, Earth observation and space servicing missions A new process to allow nearly instant detection of search and rescue beacons Several satellite technologies to increase power and efficiency for broadcasting and Internet traffic "These innovative projects will help Canada remain at the forefront of niche markets in telecommunications, spacecraft design and laser sensors," said Marc Garneau, CSA President. "The STDP program is a critical vehicle supporting the Canadian Space Strategy, which leverages scientific and technological expertise while supporting Government of Canada priorities." Halifax's Martec Limited is among 29 leading space companies from across Canada that will benefit from a series of investments valued at over $20-million announced today by the CSA. For a list of companies that have been awarded contracts, please consult the attached backgrounder. For more detailed information on each contract awarded today, please visit: www.space.gc.ca - 30 - About the Space Technology Development Program (STDP) This Canadian Space Agency program promotes the design and development of innovative technologies in Canada to maintain our nation's position as leader in space technology. The technologies it supports take full advantage of the capabilities of the Canadian space industry and are strongly linked with the future needs of the Canadian Space Program. About the Canadian Space Agency Established in 1989 and with headquarters situated in Longueuil, Quebec, the Canadian Space Agency is responsible for coordinating all civil, space-related policies and programs related to science and technology research, industrial development, and international cooperation on behalf of the Government of Canada. The Canadian Space Agency directs its resources and activities through four key thrusts: Earth Observation, Space Science and Exploration, Satellite Communications, and Space Awareness and Learning. With the overall responsibility for advancing Canada's space policy and programs, the Canadian Space Agency leverages international cooperation to champion world-class scientific research and industrial development for the benefit of humanity. For more information, please contact: Julie Simard Media Relations Canadian Space Agency Telephone: (450) 926-4370 Julie.simard@space.gc.ca Christiane Fox Office of the Honourable David L. Emerson Minister of Industry (613) 995-9001 Sujata Raisinghani Press Secretary Minister of Fisheries and Oceans (613) 992-3474
