Canada, as the only G7 nation without its own launch capabilities, is striving to develop a Canadian-made rocket. Several Canadian companies are in a race to provide the country with its own access to space, amid concerns that industry leader SpaceX might reduce its launch services.
Due to Canada’s lack of rocket launch capabilities, customers in the country rely on external providers, predominantly American companies like SpaceX. These satellites play vital roles in telecommunications, military operations such as threat detection, and earth observation tasks like wildfire monitoring.
To address these concerns and establish sovereignty in space, the Canadian government has recognized space as a crucial sovereign capability. Legislation introduced in April aims to authorize launches from Canadian soil, if approved. Significant funding has been allocated, with three Canadian companies receiving $8.3 million each to develop light-lift rocket capabilities by 2028.
NordSpace, founded in 2022, is one of the companies working towards achieving this goal. Despite an unsuccessful suborbital rocket test launch in 2025, the company plans to make another attempt soon. Reaction Dynamics, focused on a unique engine design since 2017, is also aiming to reach orbit by 2028.
The newest entrant, Canada Rocket Company, aims to build a medium-lift rocket powered by methalox-fuelled engines. With substantial private investment and government support, the company is confident in its goal, targeting a first launch by 2032.
Meanwhile, SpaceX’s plans to phase out its Falcon 9 rocket in favor of the larger Starship vessel have raised concerns among satellite customers. Smaller players relying on SpaceX’s rideshare program may face challenges beyond 2028. Kepler, a Canadian satellite communications company, has launched most of its satellites using the Falcon 9.
As Canada’s rocket industry advances, it aims to fill the gap left by SpaceX’s transition. The long-term nature of the industry requires substantial investment, with estimates indicating the need for significant funding to achieve successful launches. The journey to establishing a Canadian presence in space will take time and perseverance, but the industry is optimistic about the future.
