MDA to design and develop high performance camera systems for the International Space Station
RICHMOND, BC, June 18, 2015 /CNW/ - MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. ("MDA" or the "Company") (TSX:MDA), a global communications and information company, today announced that it has signed a contract for CA$11 million with the Canadian Space Agency to design and develop upgraded camera systems for the Mobile Servicing System (MSS). The contract includes an option for the build and test of flight cameras.
After more than 13 years of supporting on-orbit operations, the MSS camera systems are nearing the end of their design life. With International Space Station (ISS) operations continuing through 2024, the new camera systems will provide superior illumination and viewing for critical robotic operations like capture of visiting spacecraft, maintenance and inspection of the ISS. Camera features will include colour, high dynamic range, advanced focus and digital zoom to enhance ISS robotic operations.
"The cameras build on MDA's experience in developing low risk, high reliability camera systems for mission-critical space applications," said Craig Thornton, the general manager responsible for the robotics business. "The technology will be applicable to a wide variety of future space applications—from inspection systems aboard commercial satellites to planetary missions."
The MSS performs a variety of on-orbit operations ranging from resupply, maintenance, and servicing tasks that are critical to the on-going operations of the ISS. The MSS comprises Canadarm2, the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator and the Mobile Base System.
About MDA
MDA is a global communications and information company providing operational solutions to commercial and government organizations worldwide.
MDA's business is focused on markets and customers with strong repeat business potential, primarily in the Communications sector and the Surveillance and Intelligence sector. In addition, the Company conducts a significant amount of advanced technology development.
MDA's established global customer base is served by more than 4,800 employees operating from 11 locations in the United States, Canada, and internationally.
The Company's common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "MDA."
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Forward-Looking Statements
This release contains forward-looking statements and information, which reflect the current view of MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. ("MDA" or the "Company") with respect to future events and financial performance. The forward-looking statements in this regard include statements regarding the award of contract with a government agency. Any such forward-looking statements are based on MDA's current expectations, estimates, projections and assumptions in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends. The factors and assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements in this release include contracts with any government agency not being terminated. Any such forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations. MDA cautions readers that should certain risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary significantly from those expected. The risks that could cause actual results to differ from current expectations include, but are not limited to: changes in government priorities, mandates, policies, funding levels, contracts and regulations; risks associated with the design, development and operation of camera systems in an extraterrestrial environment; failure of third parties and subcontractors; and failure of systems to meet performance requirements.
For additional information with respect to certain of these risks or factors, plus additional risks or factors, reference should be made to the Company's continuous disclosure materials filed from time to time with Canadian securities regulatory authorities, which are available online under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com or on the Company's website at www.mdacorporation.com.
The Toronto Stock Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the form or content of this release.
SOURCE MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd.
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Wendy Keyzer, MDA External Relations, (604) 231-2743, [email protected]
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