The Honorable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry and the Minister responsible for the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), announced an investment of more than CAD$8 million in 26 research and development contracts. This investment ensures the timely development of priority technologies that are required for the implementation of specific potential future missions of interest to Canada.

The 26 contracts were awarded through the CSA's Space Technology Development Program (STDP), which issues periodic Requests for Proposals to identify and support the development and demonstration of strategic space technologies. "From a docking interface, to 3D sensors, and satellite technologies, these projects are coming from innovative and skilled Canadians, at the leading edge of important developments in science and technology", commented Steve MacLean, President of the Canadian Space Agency. "The STDP program is a critical vehicle which leverages scientific and technological expertise while supporting the priorities of the Government of Canada." Recipients (in alphabetical order):

• ABB Bomem Inc. (Quebec)
• Advantech Satellite Networks (Quebec)
• ARTsensing Inc.(Ontario)
• Bristol Aerospace Limited (Manitoba)
• COM DEV International Ltd. (Ontario)
• EMS SATCOM (Ontario)
• Integrity Testing Laboratory Inc.(ITL) (Ontario)
• MDA (Ontario, British Columbia)
• MPB Communications Inc. (Quebec)
• National Optics Institute (INO) (Quebec)
• Neptec Design Group (Ontario)
• NGC Aerospace Ltd. (Quebec)
• Passat Ltd. (Ontario)
• Systèmes Humains-Machines Inc. (Quebec)
• Université Laval (Quebec)

"These projects aim at developing our capability in the Canadian space sector in key technological niches such as telecommunications, spacecraft design and laser sensors, to name only a few", said Minister Clement. "These investments in Canadian innovation will continue to improve Canada's productivity and competitiveness, while leveraging our science and technology research capacity. More than ever, the Canadian Space Program is a critical driver in the growth of the Canadian economy."