Magellan Aerospace and the University of Manitoba have partnered for a new first of its kind facility. The partners unveiled their new Advanced Satellite Integration Facility (or ASIF) at Magellans facility in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The facility will support research, development, construction and testing of satellite systems and components.
Magellans focus in the ASIF partnership goes well beyond the bricks and mortar of this world-class facility, says Don Boitson, Vice President General Manager, Magellan Aerospace, Winnipeg. Magellans investment in facilities, equipment, university research, and education support over the next five years reflects our commitment to both community and youth education. He added, This partnership fosters a very meaningful relationship between academia and industry.
The facility was constructed in an existing 6,000-square-foot area, large enough to accommodate up to three satellites at various stages of assembly with sufficient ceiling height for high crane lifting requirements. The ASIF is an ISO Class 8 cleanroom facility that will satisfy the requirements of current and future satellite programs initiated by the Government of Canada.
The facility expansion was funded by an investment of $2.4 million from Western Economic Diversification Canada.
Magellan invested $1.5 million which includes $625,000 for the establishment of an Industrial Research Chair in the area of satellite development within the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Manitoba, and contributed to the construction of the facility, multi-year research and development (R&D) and educational funding.
The Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages and Member of Parliament for Saint Boniface, was present to unveil the new facility. Our Government recognizes the importance of collaborative research, commercialization and skills development to the overall competitiveness of our economy. The Advanced Satellite Integration Facility will bring together industry expertise, academic skills-development and leading-edge technology to significantly enhance the future growth opportunities and economic spinoff potential for Manitobas thriving aerospace industry, says Minister Glover.
The University of Manitoba is excited to be working in partnership with Magellan Aerospace and taking the lead on increasing the space technology sector in Western Canada, says Dr. Digvir Jayas, vice-president (research and international) and Distinguished Professor at the University of Manitoba.
Don Boitson will be the keynote speaker at the Winnipeg MMP Expo on April 7, 2015. Dont miss a chance to hear from Don trends in the aerospace industry and the unique direction Magellan is taking.
