Saint-Hubert, June 30, 2003 — The Canadian Space Agency (CSA) confirmed the successful launch of its first space telescope from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome in northern Russia. Called MOST (Microvariability & Oscillations of STars), the telescope was launched at 10:15 AM EDT, and released into orbit at 11:46 AM EDT on a Rockot booster operated by Eurockot Launch Services GmbH of Bremen, Germany. First built as nuclear intercontinental ballistic missiles, these boosters have been converted to peaceful scientific applications.
“Canadians can be proud that we have built the world’s smallest space telescope, an instrument that helps us better understand our Universe by looking at neighboring stars. Canada is yet again at the cutting edge of space technology,” said Marc Garneau, President of the CSA.
MOST is packed in a microsatellite the size and mass of a suitcase, thanks to innovative Canadian technology. Despite its modest dimensions, MOST will make some specialized astronomical observations beyond the capacity of any other instrument on Earth or in space. MOST is designed to probe the interior of stars, set a limit on the age of the Universe, and for the first time, detect light reflected by little known planets beyond our Solar System.
“As thrilling as it is to see the launch, the real excitement will start when MOST begins sending its data,” said Mission Scientist Dr. Jaymie Matthews. “We’ll witness phenomena in stars and exoplanets never seen before, which should help us better chart the history of Earth and our own Sun.”
The MOST satellite was built by the University of Toronto Institute for Aerospace Studies, while the telescope itself was designed and built by the University of British Columbia, with support Toronto’s CRESTech and Spectral Applied Research. Dynacon Enterprises of Mississauga is the prime contractor, which built the power system and developed the satellite’s pointing system, whose new, miniaturized reaction wheels are what make it possible to put such a powerful instrument in such a small package.
Once in orbit 820 km above the Earth’s surface, MOST will circle the Earth once every 100 minutes, at a speed of about 27,000 km per hour, passing over ground stations in Toronto and Vancouver several times a day.
About the Canadian Space Agency Established in 1989 with its headquarters situated in Saint-Hubert, Quebec, the Canadian Space Agency coordinates all aspects of the Canadian Space Program. Through its Space Knowledge, Applications and Industry Development business line, the CSA delivers services involving: Earth and the Environment; Space Science; Human Presence in Space; Satellite Communications; Space Technology; Space Qualification Services; Space Awareness and Education. The Canadian Space Agency is at the forefront of the development and application of space knowledge for the benefit of Canadians and humanity.
For more information:
http://www.space.gc.ca/most