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Launch Safety Office


Shuttle departingTransport Canada is responsible for rocket launch activities by virtue of the Aeronautics Act. This Act enables the creation of the Canadian Aviation Regulations that establish regulations and standards for all aeronautical activities in Canada. The regulations pertain to all forms

In support of this responsibility, Transport Canada has established the Launch Safety Office, which is responsible for the safety oversight of all civilian rocket launches in Canada except for model rocket activities that are exempted from any regulatory requirements under the Act.

Transport Canada Regional Offices dealing with General Aviation matters are responsible for the regulatory oversight of high power rocket launches.

High Power Rocket Launches

High Power Rocket Launches must be authorized pursuant to the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CAR 602.44). Persons wishing to launch a high power rocket must submit an application to the nearest regional office of Transport Canada, General Aviation. Address information is available by visiting Personnel Licensing and selecting General Information.

Transport Canada regional staff will review the application to ensure that the location and launch activities will be safe and consistent with regulatory requirements. Upon a satisfactory review, Transport Canada will issue a launch authorization that may contain additional requirements to enhance launch safety.

Sub-orbital/Orbital Rocket Launches

Sub-orbital/Orbital Rocket Launches require a launch authorization pursuant to CAR 602.44. An application for a launch authorization may be obtained and must be sent to the Launch Safety Office in Ottawa — AARRD.

A launch authorization will be issued if Transport Canada is satisfied that adequate measures are in place that deal with the safety of the launch. The authorization may also contain some additional conditions to enhance launch safety.

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Date modified:
2010-05-03