Test Vehicle Set for Launch to Edge of Space from Nova Scotia

A significant milestone in Canadian aerospace is set to take place on November 18, 2023, when a test vehicle will be launched from Nova Scotia. The launch, organized by Maritime Launch Services at Spaceport Nova Scotia in the Canso area, marks the first ascent to what is known as “the edge of space” or the Kármán line, located 100 kilometers above the Earth.

The company is collaborating with T-minus Engineering, a Dutch firm, to execute this pivotal launch. According to Stephen Matier, the founder of Maritime Launch Services, this event will be the first time in 27 years that Canada has sent anything above the Kármán line. Matier shared insights during an interview on The Todd Veinotte Show, emphasizing the historic nature of this achievement.

Residents of Canso, Hazel Hill, and Little Dover can expect to witness the launch, with Matier noting that while it will not be excessively loud, there may be audible sounds in the surrounding towns. This launch is a precursor to broader ambitions for the site, aimed at establishing a fully operational spaceport that can facilitate commercial launches akin to how airports serve airlines.

Future of Space Launches in Canada

Maritime Launch Services envisions its launch pad as a vital hub for commercial and government satellite operators, with plans for an orbital launch potentially occurring as early as 2026. In a strategic move, the company recently signed a deal with Reaction Dynamics Inc., a Montreal-based orbital launch firm, which sets the stage for the inaugural orbital launch of a Canadian-designed and built rocket from Spaceport Nova Scotia.

Matier expressed optimism about the advancements stemming from recent agreements and funding announcements. He indicated that the company is gearing up to enhance its projects and reach significant milestones in the coming year. “Looking forward to continuing that development and really kicking in some construction activities next spring to really get that site up and running and ready,” he stated.

As the launch date approaches, the excitement within the aerospace community continues to build, reflecting not only the technological advancements but also the potential for Canada’s role in the global space industry.