Com Dev Launches
Advanced Space-Based AIS Validation Nanosatellite
(28 April 2008) Com Dev International
Ltd., a leading manufacturer of space hardware subsystems, today announced that
a nanosatellite carrying an Automatic Identification System (AIS) receiver
built by Com Dev has successfully been deployed by the Antrix PSLV-C9 launch
conducted from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, India on April
28, 2008.
This activity is part of Com Dev's technology
validation process intended to verify the performance of key elements of its
advanced space-based AIS systems solution.
Com Dev commissioned the
University of Toronto Institute for Aerospace Studies Space Flight Laboratory
(UTIAS/SFL) to build the experimental spacecraft and integrate the Com Dev
payload. UTIAS/SFL will also be responsible for the operation of the
nanosatellite. The mission will collect data that will validate key technology
and performance characteristics of the AIS system, enabling design improvements
to be incorporated into the final product. The mission will also provide
information related to maritime vessel densities and distribution, which will
be used to optimise any future constellation system design.
"The
successful launch of this nanosatellite is another key step in COM DEV's
commitment to leadership in space-based AIS monitoring," said John Keating, CEO
of Com Dev International. "This project was carried out in seven months from
kick-off to launch and clearly demonstrates Com Dev's responsive capability to
market opportunities as well as that of UTIAS/SFL."
Com Dev remains on
track to provide an advanced space-based AIS capability that exceeds the
performance of any other commercial system. This capability will enhance
maritime safety and security on a global scale. The AIS data transmitted by
over 68,000 ships world-wide is now collected primarily from other ships and
land-based receivers with a limited range of approximately 50 nautical miles.
Com Dev has developed satellite payload technology to solve the traditional
challenges associated with space-based collection of AIS data, and is committed
to commercialising it following a series of tests.
About Com
Dev
Com Dev International Ltd. is a leading global designer and
manufacturer of space hardware subsystems. With facilities in Canada, the
United Kingdom and the United States, Com Dev manufactures advanced products
and subsystems that are sold to major satellite prime contractors for use in
communications, space science, remote sensing and military
satellites.
Com Dev and Com Dev Space are registered trademarks of Com
Dev International Ltd. This news release may contain certain forward-looking
statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ
materially from results indicated in any forward-looking statements. The
Company cautions that, among other things, in view of the rapid changes in
communications markets and technologies, and other risks including the cost and
market acceptance of the Company's new products, the level of individual
customer procurements and competitive product offerings and pricing, and
general economic circumstances, the Company's business prospects may be
materially different from forward-looking statements made by the
Company.
(source: Com Dev)
