Canada bolsters space nuclear sector through new center, radioisotope projects funding

The Canadian Space Agency announced C$11.1 million (about $7.9 million) in funding for 16 space projects, including two focused on radioisotope technologies, while Canada's Nuclear Innovation Institute launched the Canadian Centre for Space Isotopes.

Funded projects: The new space projects were awarded funds through the CSA's Space Technology Development Program (STDP), which supports Canadian organizations in developing early-stage space sector technologies with commercial potential. Selected applicants receive up to 75 percent of their project cost.

"Canada's future in space depends on our ability to develop and sustain world-class capabilities," said Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions. "By supporting innovation today, we are helping reinforce Canada's economic prosperity, security, sovereignty, and leadership in space for years to come."

Space heat: Canadensys Aerospace Corporation was awarded C$499,997 through the STDP program for a project developing a tritium-fueled radioisotope heating unit designed to help spacecraft survive the extreme cold of extended lunar nights by keeping batteries and electronics warm.

Canada is a key tritium producer, as the radioisotope is a byproduct of CANDU reactors. Canadensys first announced its tritium-based RHU development program in July. The company said it is collaborating with Canadian Nuclear Laboratories on the project.

"We are excited to leverage Canada's experience and supply of tritium to bring to market a key enabling system for lunar and planetary missions, where keeping the central avionic elements warm is often a critical challenge. We are thrilled to be working with the experts at Canadian Nuclear Laboratories on this," said Canadensys CEO Christian Sallaberger.

The project was awarded funding through the STDP's "next-wave technologies" category, which offers contributions of up to C$500,000 for R&D projects that are expected to last up to three years and produce economic benefits in the next five to 10 years.

Space power: The Canadian Strategic Missions Corporation (CSMC) was awarded C$350,000 through the STDP program for a project developing a radioisotope power system that could support spacecraft and lunar rovers in harsh environments. The company will advance the system's conceptual design and evaluate size, weight, and power requirements with the CSA's proposed lunar utility vehicle in mind.

"From microreactors here on Earth to radioisotope power systems in deep space, we are building a full family of power solutions capable of keeping Canada's missions running wherever they need to go," said Daniel Sax, CEO of CSMC.

CSMC was awarded funding under the STDP's "small businesses" category, which offers contributions of up to C$350,000 for businesses with a maximum of 50 employees for space R&D projects that are expected to last up to three years and produce economic benefits in the next 5-10 years.

Long-term planning: Last month, Canada's Nuclear Innovation Institute (NII) announced the launch of the Canadian Centre for Space Isotopes, which will drive research, policy development, and industry collaboration through 2030. The institute said the initiative aligns with the country's commitment to double isotope production.

The center will convene specialists from the nuclear sector, space industry, and the broader research community to "advance policy-focused research and help cultivate the partnerships," according to NII president and CEO Jessica Linthorne.

Chris Hadfield, former commander of the International Space Station, delivered a keynote address at the launch. He said, "The exploration and utilization of space are rapidly growing, and reliable, long-term power sources are key for many missions. I am excited and proud that Canada is using our raw materials and skilled engineering know-how to lead the world."

Members of the center's expert panel include a professor at Northern Ontario School of Medicine University; the CEO of the Pearson Centre think tank; a former member of provincial parliament; and eight representatives from five companies, including BWX Technologies, Bruce Power, and Kinectrics.

"Canada's leadership in isotope innovation is opening new opportunities in the space sector. The launch of the Canadian Centre for Space Isotopes reflects the strength of Canada's space industry and the expertise across our research community. Congratulations to the Nuclear Innovation Institute on this contribution to Canada's broader space ecosystem," said Joly.