Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) has launched a public consultation to modernize spectrum regulations for the Canada’s space sector. This particular consultation outlines a new licensing framework tailored to include space launch vehicles and variable trajectory spacecraft.
This regulatory update coincides with a broader government push to develop domestic launch capabilities including the Launch the North challenge. To support this industry and reduce administrative burdens, the department plans to streamline how rocket launches are approved.
Launch Vehicles
Rather than requiring a separate spectrum licence for every individual flight, regulators propose issuing a single licence that covers all vehicles using a specific flight path from a given Canadian spaceport. Canada has two spaceports under development.
Launch providers must submit ITU filings but are exempt from ISED-specific space debris mitigation plans. This is because Transport Canada holds primary authority over launch/re-entry safety under the Aeronautics Act; ISED’s exemption avoids conflicting requirements for emerging providers.
ISED noted that it is committed to providing a stable transition and avoiding a regulatory vacuum. Until the framework is finalized, ISED will grant Interim Authorizations on a case-by-case basis, subject to the technical limits proposed in this consultation.
Variable Trajectory Spacecraft (VTS) Operations
VTS are defined as spacecraft involved in In-Orbit Servicing (IOS) and In-space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (ISAM).
VTS will be licensed on a “per-mission, per-agreement” basis. Recognizing that VTS may remain in orbit between service contracts, ISED will require a license to “maintain an interim orbital position” during such gaps.
Space debris mitigation remains a central focus of the licensing rules. Operators of variable trajectory spacecraft must submit a comprehensive space debris mitigation plan and follow strict de-orbit requirements at the end of their mission. The department will not apply these same space debris requirements to launch vehicles. Transport Canada already oversees launch and re-entry safety under the Aeronautics Act, and this separation prevents conflicting federal requirements.
Core Spectrum Policy Proposals and Technical Constraints
To keep channels clear and prevent signal interference, ISED is proposing formalizing technical boundaries to ensure the co-existence of scientific and expanding commercial services. Domestic policy will now explicitly cite and adopt ITU-R Recommendations SA.2155 and SA.2156, which prescribe the following bandwidth limitations for non-spread-spectrum systems:
- Earth-to-space (2025-2110 MHz): Maximum 2.0 MHz.
- Space-to-Earth (2200-2290 MHz): Maximum 6.2 MHz.
- Space-to-space (both bands): Maximum 6.2 MHz.
Stakeholders have until Sept. 30, 2026, to submit initial comments. The reply period closes on Nov. 4, 2026. The government intends to implement the final policy framework by the spring of 2027.