Maritime Launch Services Signs Memorandum of Understanding with Leading Launch Vehicle Developer for Orbital Launches from Nova Scotia

August 13, 2024

 Nova Scotia and a prominent international launch vehicle operator have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to facilitate the launch of a small-class orbital vehicle from Spaceport Nova Scotia.

This strategic agreement marks a significant milestone for Canada’s participation in international space collaboration and aims to boost the capabilities of Spaceport Nova Scotia as a leading global launch site. Canada and the USA have also recently announced the conclusion of negotiations on a Technology Safeguards Agreement (TSA) between both countries, which paves the way for a thriving space industry launching from Spaceport Nova Scotia.

Maritime Launch is planning a first orbital launch from Spaceport Nova Scotia in 2026.

Under the terms of the MOU, Maritime Launch Services, as the spaceport operator, will provide the necessary launch site infrastructure and regulatory support, while the launch operator will be responsible for the launch vehicle and specialty support equipment.

This MOU follows the Letter of Intent that was signed by both parties in 2023 and serves as a basis for the definitive and binding launch service agreement. Both parties are committed to working closely to ensure the successful implementation of the agreement to foster the growth of the global space industry.

Maritime Launch will host its first two small launch vehicle clients at Spaceport Nova Scotia for the current construction phase and will integrate the launch provider’s vehicles and support equipment into the operational framework of Spaceport Nova Scotia.

Key Elements of the Agreement:

Pathfinder Launch: The initial steps will involve both parties working together to execute the first orbital launch from Spaceport Nova Scotia.

Commercial Operations: Following the successful pathfinder mission, the multi-year, multi-launch operations will quickly ramp up under the commercial site lease model.

Infrastructure and Safety: Maritime Launch will be responsible for public safety, launch-related mission support, and coordinating with various federal authorities for restricted airspace and waterways. The mobile launch vehicle capability will enable the use of temporary or mobile site infrastructure for initial launches.

Stephen Matier, President and CEO of Maritime Launch Services, stated, “This partnership is a significant step forward for Spaceport Nova Scotia. It not only highlights our commitment to welcoming international space companies to Canada but also secures a leading launch vehicle for orbital missions from Spaceport Nova Scotia,” Matier added “This partnership will also demonstrate our capabilities as a launch site, capable of accommodating diverse launch systems for our client needs. The partnership allows us to deliver launch capability towards the current pent-up demand from the satellite client marketplace.”