#Canada #Ottawa #MDA Space #David Florida Laboratory #Canadian Space

MDA Space Boosts Canadian Space Industry by Reopening David Florida Laboratory

MDA Space Ltd. has officially announced the resumption of operations at the David Florida Laboratory (DFL), a significant milestone for Canada's space sector. This world-class facility, located in Ottawa, is now under the management of MDA Space, ensuring that it continues to support the assembly, integration, and testing of satellites and spacecraft crucial for both government and commercial space missions.

Owned by the Canadian government since the 1970s, the DFL has served as an essential national asset for decades, playing a critical role in the advancement of Canadian space technology. The lab has contributed to numerous significant projects, including the renowned James Webb Space Telescope and the RADARSAT family of Earth observation satellites. Furthermore, its influence extends to various communications satellites that are part of everyday Canadian life.

Mike Greenley, the CEO of MDA Space, expressed pride in taking over the facility, highlighting its importance not just as a testing ground but as a symbol of Canada’s broader space ambitions. “The David Florida Laboratory is an irreplaceable national asset,” Greenley stated. He reaffirmed MDA's commitment to keeping this facility accessible to the entire Canadian industry, supporting both innovation and economic growth.

As the global space industry undergoes rapid commercialization, the transition of the DFL to an industry-controlled operation presents an ideal opportunity to nurture and strengthen Canada’s position in the international space domain. MDA is dedicated to ensuring that all industry partners have equitable access to the facility for technology validation and integration testing across a variety of environments, including electromagnetic compatibility and thermal vacuum tests.

The DFL's reopening is particularly timely, as the evolving space landscape demands robust and resilient testing facilities to help Canadian companies keep pace with global advancements. MDA Space plans to offer its services on a competitive fee-for-service basis, ensuring that organizations, big and small, have the resources necessary to develop advanced technologies and fulfill their space missions effectively.

To facilitate access to the facility’s services, MDA has set up a dedicated portal on their website. Interested partners can explore the full range of integration and testing options available, with the goal of nurturing innovations that will bolster Canada's international presence in space exploration and technology.

As MDA Space embarks on this new chapter with the DFL, the company is poised to lead Canadian innovation in the space sector, reinforcing its role as a vital partner in numerous space missions and cutting-edge technology development. Committed to fostering a collaborative environment, MDA Space is eager to witness the new heights that Canadian companies can achieve with the support of this remarkable facility.

For more information about the services offered at the David Florida Laboratory and how they can assist in your next project, visit the MDA Space website or contact their team directly.

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About MDA Space
MDA Space is a frontrunner in the global space industry with over 55 years of experience and contribution to more than 450 missions worldwide. As a pioneer in robotics, satellite systems, and geointelligence, MDA has established itself as a leader in satellite communications, Earth observation, and space exploration. With a dedicated team of 3,400 experts across Canada, the US, and the UK, MDA Space thrives at the intersection of innovation and engineering excellence, committed to realizing ambitious customer visions.

For inquiries about collaborative opportunities or to learn more about their groundbreaking work, visit mda.space.