Leaf Space signs with Maritime Launch Services for Nova Scotia ground station

Leaf Space signs with Maritime Launch Services for Nova Scotia ground station
by Simon Mansfield
Sydney, Australia (SPX) Sep 26, 2024

Leaf Space, a leader in ground segment as-a-service (GSaaS) solutions, has announced a new contract to install and manage a cutting-edge ground station at Spaceport Nova Scotia in Canada. This launch facility is owned and operated by Maritime Launch Services (Cboe CA: MAXQ, OTCQB: MAXQF).

The agreement is a significant step in Leaf Space's expansion of its global ground station network, supporting satellite operators worldwide. Spaceport Nova Scotia, Canada's first commercial spaceport near Canso, will accommodate multiple launch vehicle operators, boosting the site's role in North American commercial space launches.

Jonata Puglia, CEO of Leaf Space, stated, "This 10-year partnership with Maritime Launch Services to host our new ground station at Spaceport Nova Scotia is a major milestone for Leaf Space. Leaf Space is committed to expanding our infrastructure to meet the increasing demand for reliable ground segment providers. Our GSaaS solution, combined with the strategic northern location of Spaceport Nova Scotia, will provide unparalleled connectivity for our satellite operators across the globe."

The new ground station will integrate into Leaf Space's global network, offering telemetry, tracking, and command (TT&C) services. The partnership with Maritime Launch Services will enhance satellite coverage, particularly for polar orbit and low Earth orbit (LEO) missions.

Stephen Matier, President and CEO of Maritime Launch Services, added, "We are excited to welcome Leaf Space to Spaceport Nova Scotia as they bring their advanced ground station technology to our site. This partnership enhances the services we offer to our clients and reinforces our commitment to creating a world-class facility that supports all aspects of space missions, from launch to operations."

Installation of the ground station is scheduled for fall 2024, with operations expected to begin by Q1 2025. Once operational, the facility will be a critical part of Leaf Space's growing network, offering satellite operators increased flexibility and data access.

The Government of Canada, through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), is contributing $120,000 to Maritime Launch Services to support the installation of specialized communications equipment at Spaceport Nova Scotia.

Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton - Canso, remarked, "This is a thrilling time as we are on the cusp of a new space sector in Nova Scotia. It is no longer the final frontier, but rather an asset of growing importance as we look to innovate, grow the economy and strengthen our country's global competitiveness."

Matier emphasized, "The Government of Canada continues to demonstrate its commitment to the growth of the commercial space sector with this support. This $120,000 contribution enables us to accelerate our preparations and ensures that we remain on track to meet key milestones. This support is invaluable in helping us build the infrastructure necessary to position Spaceport Nova Scotia as a leading hub for commercial space launch operations in North America."

Leaf Space currently operates 26 antennas across 17 locations, aiming to increase network capacity while keeping operational costs low for both startups and established operators.