Title:
Martian Atmospheric Gas Evolution experiment (MAGE)
Agreement Number:
19FAYORA13
Agreement Value:
$300,000.00
Agreement Date:
Mar 20, 2020 - Dec 31, 2025
Description:
Methane has been observed in the Martian atmosphere for nearly two decades, yet key questions about the Martian methane cycle remain unanswered. On the Earth, most methane produced is biological and it is therefore a key question of the astrobiology community as to whether the Martian source, likely located deep underground, is similar.
The Martian Atmospheric Gas Evolution (MAGE) experiment will develop the science readiness level (SRL) of a potential contribution to a future landed space mission on Mars to measure the evolution of methane near the surface. It will help us to understand what is producing this gas in the present day and whether that source is biological or geological in origin.
MAGE in based on technology called Integrated Cavity-Enhanced Optical Spectroscopy (ICOS), a sensitive technique that can measure methane at very low concentrations and offers the possibility of making unprecedentedly frequent measurements at sensitivities comparable to the best current techniques.
Organization:
Canadian Space Agency
Expected Results:
The Research component of the program provides financial support to organizations to conduct space related research
and development in priority areas. It will support targeted knowledge development and innovation to sustain and enhance the Canadian capacity to use space to address national needs and priorities in the
future.
Location:
Toronto, Ontario, CA M3J 1P3
Reference Number:
003-2020-2021-Q1-04442
Report Type:
Grants and Contributions
Additional Information:
Amendment to change the end date
Initial end date: March 31, 2023
Actual end date: 31-12-25
Amendment Date
Dec 15, 2023
Recipient's Legal Name:
York University
Program:
Class Grant and Contribution Program to Support Research, Awareness and Learning in Space Science and Technology
Program Purpose:
This program supports knowledge development and innovation in the CSA's priority areas while increasing the awareness and participation of Canadians in space-related disciplines and activities.
The Research Component aims to support the development of science and technology; foster the continual development of a critical mass of researchers and highly qualified people in Canada; and support information gathering and space-related studies and research pertaining to Canadian Space Agency priorities.