Sponsored by MatrixSpace
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09 Jul 25. During a recent visit to Japan, Canadian Space Agency (CSA) President Lisa Campbell met with Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) President Hiroshi Yamakawa to explore new avenues for collaboration and opportunities for enhanced partnerships. The meeting reaffirmed the longstanding and productive relationship between the two space agencies ranging from their partnership in the International Space Station, the International Charter Space and Major Disasters, and the renewal of their commitment to sharing valuable Earth observation data – a collaboration that started in 2021. Canada and Japan have a long history of cooperation. Together, the CSA and JAXA are working on complementary lunar exploration technologies to help establish a long-term human presence on the Moon. Looking ahead, both countries are focused on developing next-generation technologies to ensure a sustainable and secure future in space. The CSA delegation also took part in the SPACETIDE conference to showcase the Canadian space program and its vibrant industrial capabilities, while engaging with the Japanese space sector. The objective was to broaden awareness and lay the groundwork for potential future Canada–Japan industry relations and business development. As the global space environment grows more complex, strong international partnerships are essential. Canada remains committed to working closely with like-minded countries like Japan to advance peaceful exploration, strengthen industry ties, and support innovation that benefits humanity as a whole.
Quotes
“Canada and Japan have a rich history of scientific and technological advancement, sharing a common vision for the peaceful and innovative use of space. By developing our strengths and innovating side by side, Canada and Japan are not only positioned for future growth but are also laying the vital foundations for the future of space exploration.” —The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
“By strengthening our collaboration with Japan, whether in Earth observation, lunar exploration, or industry development, we are advancing shared priorities like sustainability, resilience, and new economic opportunities.” —Lisa Campbell, President of the Canadian Space Agency
“The visit of President Campbell was a valuable opportunity for JAXA and the CSA to renew the commitment to our strengthening partnership. We were also able to introduce JAXA’s diverse research and development activities, including initiatives such as Earth observation, lunar missions, space science exploration and Space Strategy Fund. JAXA looks forward to continuing this longstanding relationship to support the peaceful and sustainable use of outer space as well as the advancement of science and technology.” —Hiroshi Yamakawa, President of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency
Quick facts
- Canada and Japan are both members of the International Charter Space and Major Disasters. With 17 Charter members and 270 contributing satellites from around the world, the Charter allows for resources and expertise to be organized for a quick response to catastrophic events.
- Canada and Japan have been proud partners in the International Space Station (ISS) since the inception of the project in the 1980s. So far, eight JAXA astronauts have completed their robotics training at the CSA’s Robotics Training Centre to learn how to operate Canadarm2 while on board the ISS.
- In 2009, Canadarm2’s first cosmic catch was JAXA’s HTV cargo ship. This year, Canadarm2 will catch JAXA’s new HTV-X vehicle and berth it to the ISS.
- The CSA is supporting the participation of two scientists from Canada on the X-Ray Imaging and Spectroscopy (XRISM) mission. Led by JAXA, XRISM is an international space mission that studies extreme events in space and furthers our understanding of the universe. (Source: PR Newswire)
09 Jul 25. MDA Space (TSX: MDA), a trusted mission partner to the rapidly expanding global space industry, announced that it has digitally formed and steered multiple beams with its Ka-band direct radiating array (DRA) using direct sampling, a first in the industry. Digitally formed beams, multiple simultaneous beams, and electronically steered beams are among the key features of the MDA AURORATM Ka-band DRA. Their successful validation marks a significant breakthrough in satellite communication systems that support broadband connectivity and 5G networks. It also marks a key milestone in the development of the digital payload technology for the MDA AURORATM software-defined product line for next-generation satellite constellations Beam forming and steering with Ka-band DRAs has typically relied on intermediate frequency conversion whereas MDA Space’s use of direct sampling results in a more efficient and effective approach, allowing customers to save on satellite costs, mass and power consumption. MDA AURORATM enables the DRA to deliver signals where they are needed and when they are needed, while maximizing the use of the satellite resources. In addition, MDA AURORATM is highly scalable, capable of handling hundreds of array elements and providing multiple simultaneous high-capacity spot beams that can be electronically steered, offering a new level of flexibility and performance. This capability is particularly valuable for satellite operators seeking to support 5G networks and the growing demand for data-intensive services, where high-speed, low-latency connectivity is essential.
“With MDA AURORATM, we’re providing a highly flexible and adaptable solution that can be tailored to meet each customer’s specific requirements,” said Luigi Pozzebon, Vice-President of Satellite Systems at MDA Space. “The successful demonstration of our Ka-band DRA technology is a critical step towards delivering those advanced capabilities that will help customers compete in the rapidly evolving satellite communications market.”
Customers can now observe functioning MDA AURORATM technology in a specially designed demonstration lab at the company’s manufacturing facility in Montréal. This includes the formation and steering of beams through thermal imaging, as the heat the beams generate on the test chamber surface is captured. The lab features a DRA prototype that will ultimately be connected to an onboard processor (OBP) prototype to demonstrate the full communication chain between a gateway ground station and a user terminal, providing a comprehensive view of the system’s end-to-end capabilities. (Source: PR Newswire)
08 Jul 25. GKN Aerospace and ArianeGroup strengthen partnership with new Ariane 6 contract.
- Agreement reinforces a long-term partnership that plays a key role in securing Europe’s independent access to space
- Frame Contract secures GKN Aerospace’s role in exploitation phase – the operational launch phase – of Ariane 6
- ArianeGroup retains supplier of critical components for both Vulcain 2.1 and Vinci engines for the industrial ramp-up of Ariane 6
- Space market also a leading driver of innovation and technology for GKN Aerospace’s wider business
GKN Aerospace and ArianeGroup have signed a new Frame Contract for the operational phase of Ariane 6, securing Europe’s access to space for years to come and building on a partnership spanning over five decades. It is the first agreement between ArianeGroup and a major industrial partner as the new European launcher enters its industrial ramp-up. The new agreement confirms GKN Aerospace’s continued deliveries to the Ariane 6 program throughout the launcher’s operational life, following its successful maiden flight in July 2024 and the first commercial mission in March 2025.
ArianeGroup, a French-German leader in space technology, secures several mission-critical components for the Ariane 6 launch vehicle supplied by GKN Aerospace, including:
-LH₂ and LOX turbines for the first-stage Vulcain 2.1 engine
-Nozzle extension for the Vulcain 2.1 engine
-LH₂ and LOX turbines for the second-stage Vinci engine
These components have been developed in collaboration with ArianeGroup under a European Space Agency (ESA) programme and are produced at GKN Aerospace’s engines centre of excellence in Trollhättan, Sweden.
Ariane 6 is Europe’s next-generation launch vehicle, ensuring independent access to space and offering an efficient, flexible solution for a wide range of institutional and commercial missions. It is launched from the Guiana Space Centre in Kourou, French Guiana.
Stefan Oscarsson, Senior Vice President Engines, said: “We are proud to continue our long-term collaboration within the Ariane programme. Signing this contract secures our future contribution to European space launch capability and reinforces our partnership with ArianeGroup as we move forward with Ariane 6.”
Stéphane Nogatchewsky, Chief Procurement Officer ArianeGroup, said: “This fruitful collaboration with a major industrial partner is an important step towards the Ariane 6 program. I would like to thank the teams at GKN Aerospace and ArianeGroup. This contract shows the progress in the negotiations with our partners for the exploitation phase and underscores our determination to make the Ariane 6 ramp-up a success.”
GKN Aerospace has been a trusted partner in the Ariane programme since its inception. This new contract marks the next chapter in a long-standing collaboration, focused on innovation, reliability, and ensuring Europe’s independent access to space.
10 Jul 25. SATIM Inc., a global leader in AI-powered object detection and classification on Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imagery, has entered into a strategic collaboration with Ursa Space Systems, a pioneer in applied satellite intelligence and operator of the world’s largest virtual SAR constellation. Through this partnership, SATIM’s cutting-edge object detection and classification software will be made available via Ursa Space’s platform, enhancing the analytical capabilities accessible to Ursa Space’s global user base. The partnership marks a significant milestone for both companies in expanding the accessibility and operational impact of SAR-based analytics. By combining SATIM’s advanced AI-driven processing with Ursa Space’s unparalleled data access and delivery infrastructure, the collaboration is set to provide mission-critical insights for government and commercial users worldwide.
30 Jun 25. Axient selected for USSF STEP 2.0 contract to accelerate military space innovation. Astrion, through its legacy company Axient LLC, was selected earlier this month by the U.S. Space Force (USSF) as one of 12 awardees on the Space Test Experiments (STEP) 2.0 program. STEP 2.0, a 10-year, multi-award Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract worth up to $237m, aims to advance military space technology, reduce costs, and streamline processes by harnessing the latest in commercial innovation. Astrion and the other contract awardees will bid on task orders to build modular satellites and integrate them with various experimental payloads, enabling USSF to conduct tests on emerging technologies on-orbit. Astrion has a long history of partnership with USSF Space Systems Command, supporting critical programs including the National Security Space Launch, Missile Warning, Global Positioning, and New Entrant Certification missions. In addition, for nearly two decades Astrion teammate Orion Space Solutions, an Arcfield Company, has developed trusted space-based solutions for the national security and intelligence communities. Administered by USSF’s Space Systems Command’s (SSC) Department of Defense (DoD) Space Test Program (STP), STEP 2.0 is expected to issue its first delivery order in January 2026. Other organizations selected for the STEP 2.0 contract include Blue Canyon Technologies, General Atomics, Lockheed Martin Corp., Loft Orbital Federal, Lynk Global, Orbit Systems, Spire Global Subsidiary, Turion Space Corp., Tyvak Nano-Satellite Systems, Utah State University Space Dynamics Lab, and York Space Systems. Dan Benjamin, Astrion’s Executive Vice President and General Manager, Space, said, “We look forward to this opportunity to build on our space integration history delivering our extensive experience, bold ideas, and unmatched execution in support of STEP 2.0.” (Source: Satnews)
01 Jul 25. Oxford Space Systems deploys S-Band helical antenna for Astro Digital enhancing satellite communication capabilities. Oxford Space Systems, a leading innovator in deployable antennas for space, was successful with the on-orbit deployment of an S-band isoflux helical antenna for Astro Digital, a provider of satellite systems. The isoflux pattern enables wide and consistent coverage on the ground, enhancing satellite communication capabilities. This deployment builds on a strong collaboration between Oxford Space Systems and Astro Digital, supporting multiple satellites with advanced antenna solutions. The S-band antenna was designed and manufactured by Oxford Space Systems to meet Astro Digital’s mission requirements. Its compact stowage and robust deployment mechanism ensure efficient use of spacecraft volume and mass, while delivering high-performance S-band communications for data transmission and ground coverage.
Sean Sutcliffe, CEO of Oxford Space Systems, commented, “The successful deployment and performance verification at high power of our S-band isoflux helical antenna for Astro Digital is a clear demonstration of our engineering expertise and commitment to mission success. We are proud to continue supporting Astro Digital with agile and reliable deployable antenna solutions.
Chris Biddy, CEO of Astro Digital, added, “We value our partnership with Oxford Space Systems and are pleased with the successful deployment of this S-band antenna. Their innovative approach to deployable antennas continues to support our mission needs and enables us to deliver reliable communications for our customers.”
Following deployment, the antenna underwent a transmit test, which confirmed its operational performance in orbit.
This deployment reinforces Oxford Space Systems’ position as a trusted partner in the global space industry, delivering high-performance deployable antennas for commercial and government missions. (Source: Satnews)
28 Jun 25. Rocket Lab launches ‘Symphony In The Stars’ and achieves new record of two launches under 48 hours. Rocket Lab Corporation (Nasdaq: RKLB) (“Rocket Lab” or “the Company”), provider of launch services and space systems, today successfully launched its 68th Electron rocket to deploy a single satellite to space for a confidential commercial customer. The ‘Symphony In The Stars’ mission lifted-off from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1 in Mahia, New Zealand on June 28th (7:08 p.m./07:08 UTC) to deploy a single spacecraft to a 650km circular Earth orbit. The mission was the first of two dedicated launches for the new customer on Electron booked less than four months ago, with a second mission scheduled before the end of 2025. The mission was the second of two launches from the same launch site in less than 48 hours, a new launch record for the Company as it continues to deliver dedicated, repeatable and reliable access to space for satellite operators.
Rocket Lab Founder and CEO, Sir Peter Beck, says, “Electron has demonstrated once again that it is the gold standard for responsive and reliable space access for small satellites. The future of space is built on proven performance, and Electron continues to deliver against a stacked launch manifest this year. Congratulations to the team on achieving its fastest launch turnaround yet between two missions from Launch Complex 1. This launch was also a quick-turn mission to meet our customer’s mission requirements, and we’re looking forward to doing it again later this year.”
‘Symphony In The Stars’ was Rocket Lab’s 10th Electron mission of 2025 and its 68th launch overall. With 100% mission success so far this year, Electron continues to deliver reliable deployment amid an increasing launch cadence and rapid contract-to-launch timelines. Rocket Lab has now completed four launches in June for commercial satellite constellation operators, underscoring Electron’s consistent performance and rapid deployment capabilities as the world’s leading small launcher: the “Full Stream Ahead” mission on June 3rd; “ (Source: Satnews)
01 Jul 25. SpaceX’s Falcon 9 launches MTG-Sounder satellite to address air pollution and extreme weather events + ESA + EUMETSAT. On Tuesday, July 1 at 5:04 p.m. ET, Falcon 9 launched the Eumetsat MTG-S1 mission to geosynchronous transfer orbit from Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Both MTG and Copernicus Sentinel-4 are world-class Earth observation missions developed with European partners to address scientific and societal challenges, such as air pollution and extreme weather events. While the MTG-Sounder (MTG-S1) will provide improved data for weather forecasting and storm detection, Sentinel-4 will enhance air quality monitoring over Europe.
This was the ninth flight for the Falcon 9 first stage booster supporting this mission, which previously launched Crew-9, RRT-1, Firefly Blue Ghost Mission 1, Fram2, SXM-10, and three Starlink missions. (Source: Satnews)
29 Jun 25. Arianespace to launch CO3D + MicroCarb satellites via Vega C. On July 25, 2025, Arianespace will place into orbit Airbus Defence and Space’s CO3D satellites, as well as the CNES’s MicroCarb satellite, with a Vega C rocket. The CO3D mission is a constellation (Constellation Optique en 3D) composed of four small satellites which are set to map the globe in 3D from LEO, serving public and private sector needs. The MicroCarb mission is designed to map sources and sinks of carbon dioxide (CO2) – the most important greenhouse gas – on a global scale. This data will answer both the military need for precise and up-to-date cartography as well as civil applications such as hydrology, geology, civil security, urban planning and land and resource management. The CNES’ MicroCarb mission is designed to map sources and sinks of carbon dioxide (CO₂), the most important greenhouse gas, on a global scale. The satellite’s dispersive spectrometer instrument will measure atmospheric concentration of CO₂ globally with a high degree of precision. MicroCarb’s platform is based out of the lastest CNES Myriade model. Its instrument was built by Airbus Defence and Space, and the integration was realized by Thales Alenia Space UK through a dedicated partnership implemented with the UK Space Agency.
The VV27 launch at a glance:
- 354th launch by Arianespace, 5th Vega C launch
- 10% of the satellites launched by Arianespace are Earth observation satellites
- 147th-150th spacecraft built by Airbus Defence and Space launched by Arianespace (CO3D, 4 satellites)
- 108th spacecraft built by Thales Alenia Space launched by Arianespace (MicroCarb platform) (Source: Satnews)
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Founded in 2017, MatrixSpace is creating the next generation of artificial intelligence enabled sensing solutions to digitize the outdoors beyond the limits of human perception.
The company combines novel artificial intelligence and radar technologies to identify movement and provide context in real-time. MatrixSpace sensors are the smallest, lightest and most portable high-performance systems on the market powered by AI. They deliver actionable insights that empower a broad range of public and private enterprises to protect assets and maintain safety with superior situational awareness.
For the modern, mobile battlespace, MatrixSpace provides both high performance 4D radar and jam-resistant mesh networked communications engineered to perform in the harshest conditions—day or night, in any weather, and in remote, rugged locations. Designed for flexibility, our radar systems can be integrated with tactical vehicles or mounted on structures like buildings, TOCs, or stanchions. Offering 360° coverage, they provide unmatched field-of-view advantages, while low energy consumption allows for solar/battery-powered operation in off-grid environments at twice the duration and a fraction the cost of alternatives. The MatrixSpace AI platform removes clutter and classifies objects, so operators can act confidently without specialized radar expertise.
The MatrixSpace expeditionary radar kit fits in a standard daypack and contains everything needed to deliver actionable detections to an ATAK mobile device in less than 5 mins.
MatrixSpace solutions are designed and developed in the United States, without ITAR export restrictions, manufactured under the highest ISO and IATF standards and rigorously tested for quality, reliability and compliance.
Visit maxtrixspace.com
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