Title:
Development of a Miniaturized Ion Source for Space Exploration
Agreement Number:
25STDPZ03
Agreement Value:
$453,913.00
Agreement Date:
Aug 1, 2025 - Dec 31, 2026
Description:
Active interrogation techniques using neutron beams are typically used for material identification and elemental analysis over a broad spectrum of space and terrestrial applications. Space applications include searching for volatiles, geological characterization, and (eventually) prospecting to enable mining and in-situ resource utilization; applications on Earth include explosives and narcotics detection in security arenas. BTI is proposing to develop a simple, miniature, ruggedized ion source as a component of future neutron generators and ion-beam probes. The miniaturized device will help accommodate payload mass and volume constraints, while the low complexity will reduce fabrication costs and improve reliability. In many surveying applications, there is a desire to use a broadly dispersed beam rather than one intense point source. An affordable, miniature ion source could be used to populate an interrogation zone with an array of many small generators, thereby offering a unique capability relative to the current state-of-the-art.
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:
Chalk River, Ontario, CA K0J 1J0
Reference Number:
003-2025-2026-Q2-00037
Agreement Type:
Contribution
Report Type:
Grants and Contributions
Recipient Type:
For-profit organization
Amendment Date
Mar 26, 2026
Recipient's Operating Name:
Bubble Technology Industries
Recipient's Legal Name:
Bubble Technology Industries Inc.
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.