The closure of the decades-old Space Technology Institute in Ottawa is not only a shock to its employees, experts say, but also reflects changes in the industry.
On Friday, the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) confirmed that the David Florida Laboratory (DFL) will close at the end of March 2025.
The institute officially opened in 1972 in the Shirley’s Bay complex off Carling Avenue on the city’s west side.
Works at Canada Arm Dubbed Canada’s most famous technological achievement in the field of robotics, and James Webb Space Telescope Guidance Sensorwas carried out there.
Tyler Chamberlin, an associate professor of technology and innovation management at the University of Ottawa, said news of the closure was extremely disappointing.
“This facility is a very important facility in Canada’s space sector. [more than] “It’s been 50 years since then,” he said.
Labs like DFL are valuable because they have space that can be leased to other companies and organizations, allowing ambitious companies to enter the expensive space industry, he said.
Chamberlin added that while the space sector may sound futuristic, abstract and unrelated, it is connected to other important sectors such as communications and defense.
Work on Canadarm, called Canada’s most famous technological achievement in the field of robotics, took place at this institute. (Canadian Space Agency)
A laboratory from a bygone era, experts tell us
Michael Graham, founder and CEO of Canada’s Space Simulation Services, which provides environmental simulation services to the satellite and aerospace industries, said it was “obviously sad” that people would lose their jobs. Stated.
But in his view, DFL is designed for old-fashioned space research with large-scale, long-term projects.
Graham, who previously worked for DFL, said today’s space field is more commercialized as private companies like his enter the field and build their own facilities.
Michael Graham is a former DFL official and current founder and CEO of Canada’s Space Simulation Services. He said DFL was designed for old-fashioned space research. (Courtesy of Michael Graham)
“I applaud CSA for making that decision… Its infrastructure was always designed for the old space program, but it just changed and it’s up to the industry to step up.” I think there are,” he said.
Despite the looming shutdown, Chamberlin said the space industry “always needs government involvement.” [and] Support by its nature. It’s an expensive workplace. ”
As an example, Chamberlin highlighted Elon Musk, one of the most successful private space entrepreneurs. SpaceX has a contract with the US government.
The labor union says the lab is busy.
Richard Thibert, president of the local branch of the Canadian Transport Workers’ Union, which represents DFL employees, said the closure comes despite the company’s busy schedule and workers view it as unfair.
“They don’t understand why the institute is being closed. They continue to refuse to work,” Thibert said. “CSA could have found other ways to make cuts.” [costs] Besides cutting back on facilities.”
The union expects its members to find new employment in the government.
Other options for affected workers include buyouts, Thibert added.
