Canadian Firms Collaborate on Space Domain Awareness Initiative
NorthStar Earth & Space and Kepler Communications, two Canadian companies, have announced a strategic partnership to advance space domain awareness (SDA) capabilities. This collaboration involves deploying NorthStar's optical SDA sensors and its patented Space Information & Intelligence (Si²) platform on Kepler's satellites through a hosted-payload agreement.
The partnership is designed to accelerate the deployment of orbital sensing capabilities, providing real-time space intelligence on a global scale. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance space situational awareness and ensure the safety and sustainability of space operations.
In a related development, NorthStar secured a contract exceeding C$40 million (approximately US$29 million) in July 2026 with the Royal Canadian Air Force’s 3 Canadian Space Division. This contract underscores the growing importance of space domain awareness in national defense strategies.
Kepler Communications has been actively expanding its capabilities, having recently completed a proof-of-concept laser-link demonstration for the U.S. Space Development Agency. The company has also selected Rocket Lab for its first dedicated launch mission, scheduled for no earlier than 2028, and activated its commercial data-relay service for global customers.
Meanwhile, in the United States, LeoLabs is preparing to demonstrate its Scout mobile radar system under a US$20.68 million Prototype Other Transaction Authority (OTA) awarded by the U.S. Space Force. This demonstration is part of efforts to enhance national-security-focused SDA capabilities.