Canada to use Thales advanced ground segment technology to respond to distress signals

Using Thales Aleria Space’s MEOLUT Next phased array solution, Canada will have the first space-borne search and rescue system of this type, Thales says.

Thales Alenia Space designs, operates and delivers satellite-based systems for governments. Since its commissioning in 2016, MEOLUT Next has detected distress signals more than 5,000 km away.

The contract will support Canada’s ability to respond to distress signals from land, air and sea, and meet its obligations under the International COSPAS-SARSAT Programme Agreement. It calls for the procurement of two MEOLUTs and maintenance services for five years with options for an additional five years.

“We are confident that our solution will meet and exceed Canada’s MEOSAR expectations, offering Canada a decisive technology for its decisive moments,” said Philippe Blatt, VP of navigation, France, at Thales Alenia Space. “Today, MEOLUT Next is the only solution in the world capable of processing second-generation beacons in real time. Its operational efficiency was recently recognized by Space & Satellite Professionals International (SSPI) for its humanitarian contributions.”