Title:
Metal combustion technology for in-situ space resource utilization and orbital debris removal: Sounding rocket, parabolic flights and ground-based studies
Agreement Number:
25FAMCA54
Agreement Value:
$436,456.00
Agreement Date:
Feb 27, 2026 - Mar 31, 2028
Description:
Developing the foundations of metal–oxygen combustion technology for space propulsion and energy storage is the focus of the current proposal and is also linked to a broader goal of advancing metals as carbon-free carriers of clean energy on Earth. This project proposes to analyze experimental data from a space sounding rocket experiment, tentatively scheduled for launch in 2027 from Esrange Space Center in Kiruna (Sweden), and to direct the experiment’s progression in real time through ground-to-space telemetry. In addition, the project will complement the flight mission through a range of ground-based experiments conducted on various metal flames and will test a novel concept for deorbiting debris from Earth and lunar orbits (by inducing deceleration within a large, low-density cloud of nano-oxide particles generated through metal combustion) through a proof-of-concept experiment.
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:
Montreal, Quebec, CA H3A 0G4
Reference Number:
003-2025-2026-Q4-00039
Report Type:
Grants and Contributions
Additional Information:
The amount allocated covers more than one fiscal year.
Recipient's Legal Name:
McGill 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.