Title:
CARAT: Canadian Calibrator for Radio Telescopes
Agreement Number:
25FATOB53
Agreement Value:
$290,198.00
Agreement Date:
Mar 3, 2026 - Mar 31, 2028
Description:
CARAT is a space-based instrument that will fly in low-Earth orbit on a CubeSat and act as a known reference source for Canadian and other ground-based radio telescopes. This “artificial radio star” can be observed, tracked, and used to calibrate their receivers to greatly improve their accuracy. This project will develop and test the payload for CARAT to prepare it for a future flight and involves the development of several cutting-edge space technologies, increasing their technology readiness level in the process. The project will also train personnel in space-related areas, particularly CubeSat payloads and technology as well as radio astronomy, to build greater space capacity in Canada.
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 M5S 1S8
Reference Number:
003-2025-2026-Q4-00037
Report Type:
Grants and Contributions
Additional Information:
The amount allocated covers more than one fiscal year.
Recipient's Legal Name:
University of Toronto
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.