The Canadian Space Agency awarded a four-year contract worth $116 million to MacDonald Dettwiler Space and Advanced Robotics (MD Robotics) of Brampton, Ontario, to provide ongoing engineering services for the Canadian-made Mobile Servicing System on the International Space Station.
“This contract is an example of the ongoing partnership between the space industry and government,” said Allan Rock, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for the CSA. “The Canadian Space Agency and MacDonald Dettwiler have developed a strong working relationship, positioning Canada as a leader in space robotics, strengthening our Canadian space industry and creating high-tech jobs.”
As part of this contract administered by Public Works and Government Services Canada, MD Robotics will provide software maintenance and enhancement for orbiting Canadian robotic components, and the development, testing and integration of Dextre, a special purpose multi-functional robot. MD Robotics will also provide spare equipment and overall technical support on the ground.
Dan Friedmann, President and CEO of MDA, said: “With this contract, our robotics on the International Space Station, including Canadarm2, will transition to long term operation on Station. This is a key milestone for our Robotics group.”
The Space Station’s sophisticated robotic system is critical to its assembly, maintenance, and servicing. It includes Canadarm2 (installed in 2001), the Mobile Base System (installed in 2002), and the two-armed robot known as Dextre, which will be undergoing final testing before launch and installation on the Space Station in 2005.