CSA and ASI: long-term agreement to formalize continued cooperation in EO

i-newswire.com
 
The newly ratified agreement lays the
groundwork for ongoing cooperation on projects and activities in which
Canada and Italy have a common interest. In particular, it will enable
joint programs for Earth observation to be set up, and encourage
participation by the space agencies, private companies, and
universities of the two countries.
 
“Canada?±Italy cooperation in the
exploration and use of space is not new,” said Marc Garneau, CSA
President. “For example, our Italian counterparts recently developed
the structure or ‘bus’ for Canada’s RADARSAT-2 satellite, helping to
complete a project that will enhance Canada’s international reputation
for providing precise radar satellite data. I look forward to the many
concrete economic, technological and scientific benefits we will derive
from this agreement.”
 
Representing ASI, President Sergio
Vetrella said: “The agreement signed today is very important and
strengthens cooperation in many space activities between our two
countries. It is the first agreement of this type between Canada and
Italy, and facilitates the pooling of scientific and technological
expertise in Earth observation.”
 
One of the first joint projects expected
to follow from this comprehensive partnership is a joint feasibility
study concerning the launch of a small Earth-observation satellite that
could be put into orbit in 2009. This joint mission would advance the
state of the art in hyperspectral imaging.
 
Canada and Italy are also assessing
whether to extend the scientific partnership-in particular, to the
development and validation of forecast models that would mitigate the
effects of natural disasters. They are also considering taking
advantage of technologies developed for Italy’s Cosmo-Skymed and
Canada’s RADARSAT-2 satellite projects, among others.
 
About the Italian Space Agency
 
The
Agenzia Spaziale Italiana ( ASI ) was established in 1988 to promote,
coordinate, and conduct Italian space activities. Operating under the
Ministry of Education, University and Scientific Research, ASI has made
Italy one of the primary spacefaring nations. Italy was the first
European country??third in the world-to launch its own satellite.
Italy’s achievements are demonstrated by the close collaboration with
NASA for Mars exploration and the International Space Station, and with
the European Space Agency where it is the third contributor country.
 
Italy has been making important
investments in space since the 1960s, so that it now has the scientific
and industry experience levels for its production and research
organizations to be leading players in space initiatives.
 
To face the challenges of global competition ASI operates:
– on the forefronts of science and advanced technology
– on advanced services initiatives and promotion in such
fields as telecommunications, civil protection, defence, environmental
monitoring and management of natural resources
 
ASI’s mission is to work so that
collective resources dedicated to space activities enhance the quality
of life, improve the nation’s security, strengthen services and
essential infrastructure for a modern society and improve the
competitiveness of industry systems and services.
 
About the Canadian Space Agency
 
Established in 1989 and with headquarters situated in Longueuil,
Quebec, the Canadian Space Agency is responsible for coordinating all
civil, space-related policies and programs related to science and
technology research, industrial development, and international
cooperation on behalf of the Government of Canada. The Canadian Space
Agency directs its resources and activities through four key thrusts:
Earth Observation, Space Science and Exploration, Satellite
Communications, and Space Awareness and Learning. With the overall
responsibility for advancing Canada’s space policy and programs, the
Canadian Space Agency leverages international cooperation to champion
world-class scientific research and industrial development for the
benefit of humanity.
EARSC
Author: EARSC



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