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 optimize 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 worldwide 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 commercializing it following a series of tests.

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