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Section 2: Analysis of Program Activities by Strategic Outcome

2.1 Program Activities in Earth Observation, Space Science and Exploration, and Satellite Communications

Program Activity: Space Based Earth Observation

Program Activity Priority:The program activity objective is to develop and operationalize the use of space Earth Observation (EO) for the benefit of Canadians, especially in the fields of environment, resource and land use management, as well as security and foreign policy.


Space Based Earth Observation (EO)
Program Activity Performance Measurement
Expected Result #1 Performance Indicators
The benefits of activities involved in Earth Observation from space serve Canadian users in the fields of environment, resource and land-use management, and security and sovereignty. 1. Proportion of active missions relative to the total number of missions supported by Canada in the EO priority areas.

2. Number of technological/scientific applications developed as a result of CSA's participation in space missions and/or support to projects/activities in EO.

3. Number of technological/scientific uses as a result of CSA's participation in space missions and/or support to projects/activities in EO.

Planning and Reporting Continuity:

RPP 2008-2009 and DPR 2007-2008:
www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/publications/default.asp#parliament



Resources 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012
Financial ($ in millions) 85.8 85.4 105.3
Humans (FTEs) 78.0 64.5 59.8

Summary of the Planning Highlights for Space Based Earth Observation

  • RADARSAT-1 operations will continue with the usual high level of performance for satellite operations and quality image production while RADARSAT-2, launched in December 2007, will supply to Canadian government users improved images which have been prepaid by the government $445 million investment in the satellite.
  • Through the Earth Observation Application Development and the Government Related Initiatives Programs, the CSA will continue satellite data application development and use to support the growth of Earth observation capabilities within the Canadian government departments and agencies, and the service industry.
  • The CSA will continue to develop the RADARSAT Constellation mission, to meet the Canadian Government needs, particularly for maritime surveillance, disaster management and ecosystem monitoring.
  • Canadian companies will develop advanced space-borne instruments and user-oriented applications through participation in the European Space Agency programs.

Benefits for Canadians

Earth observation missions drive many of the changes that are improving our quality of life by helping our government deliver on priorities such as protection of the environment, sustainable development, management of natural resources, understanding climate change, monitoring air quality, and providing support for disaster management. For instance, space based Earth observation enables monitoring of the environment with unparalleled coverage and scope, enhancing our forecasting capabilities and our understanding of environmental systems. Earth observation data are used for sustainable management and development of natural resources, land use, fisheries and agriculture.

EO missions are also critical to security and sovereignty, offering cost-effective, wide-area surveillance of land and maritime environments that are difficult to access, such as coastal approaches and the Northwest Passage.

Among Canada's government users benefiting from EO data are Environment Canada, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the Canadian Ice Service, Natural Resources Canada, the Department of National Defence, and the provinces and territories.

To learn more about the Earth Observation Program Activity, go to:
www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/publications/default.asp#parliament

Program Activity: Space Science and Exploration

Program Activity Priority:The program activity objective is to better understand the Solar System and the Universe; expand our knowledge on the constituent elements and origins of life; and strengthen a human presence in space. In doing so, the CSA will sustain and increase Canada's contribution to humankind's scientific knowledge, to the exploration of our solar system and the Universe and to the development of related technologies.


Space Science and Exploration (SE) Program
Activity Performance Measurement
Expected Result #1 Performance Indicators
Participation in Canadian and international missions expands the scientific knowledge base made available to Canadian academia and R&D communities in the areas of astronomy, space exploration and solar-terrestrial relations, as well as in physics and life sciences. 1. Proportion of active missions relative to the total number of missions supported by Canada in the SE priority areas.

2. Number of scientific/technological applications developed as a result of CSA's participation in space missions and/or support to projects/activities in SE.

3. Number of peer-reviewed papers produced in academia and the R&D community in Canada recognizing CSA's support through its participation in space missions and/or support to projects/activities in SE.

Planning and Reporting Continuity:

RPP 2008-2009 and DPR 2007-2008:
www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/publications/default.asp#parliament



Resources 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012
Financial ($ in millions) 143.3 117.6 103.8
Humans (FTEs) 191.9 183.1 178.2

Summary of the Planning Highlights for Space Science and Exploration

  • Canada is participating in the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), a major international facility-class space observatory that will be launched in 2013. The JWST is a successor to the highly successful Hubble Space Telescope. Canada is responsible for the design and construction of the Fine Guidance Sensor (FGS) which ensures the very precise pointing of the telescope and the provision to the international astronomical community of simultaneous images. Through the CSA's contribution Canadian astronomers will have guaranteed access to 5% of the observing time on the telescope.
  • The CSA will continue to support the International Space Station (ISS) assembly and maintenance operations and will initiate operational use of Dextre as a new tool to effect repairs on the ISS. In return Canada gained rights to use the ISS resources and as the crew size increases, CSA is working to fully exploit the long-term access to a space environment as a platform for microgravity research on fluid physics, human physiology, and materials processing.
  • The CSA will maintain its human space flight expertise. Canadian astronauts Robert Thirsk and Chris Hadfield are now on training. One is in preparation for the first Canadian long-duration space flight on the ISS in May 2009. Canadian astronaut Julie Payette has been assigned to a Space Shuttle flight in the summer of 2009. To ensure that Canada has enough astronauts to fully take advantage of its investment in the ISS, the CSA will conclude its recruitment campaign with the selection of two new astronauts by May 2009.
  • The CSA will continue to participate actively to the International Space Exploration Coordination Group that was created in 2007 to promote collaboration among space agencies for the exploration of the moon and Mars exploration to various space agencies around the world. The CSA established exploration core activities will benefit from additional funding of $110 million over three years announced in budget 2009 to contribute to the development of terrestrial prototypes for space robotic vehicles, such as the Mars Lander and Lunar Rover, and for the further development of other technologies and space robotics. These prototypes will be tested here on Earth in terrestrial analogue missions.

Benefits for Canadians

In today's context of environmental change and resource depletion, fundamental and applied research in physical and life sciences and in space exploration has great potential to bring about socio-economic benefits in ways that will greatly improve how we live, prosper, and evolve on our planet. For instance, the development of a surface mobility capability on the Moon will require the use of solar-powered electrical propulsion vehicles, which, in turn, could well lead the way toward spin-off commercialization of green technologies for the transport vehicles of the future. Space exploration, science and technology endeavours, which often involve international partners, will continue to position the CSA to play an influential role in building strong and mutually beneficial partnerships with an increasing number of space faring countries. In striving to become one of the most advanced, connected and innovative nations in the world, Canada offers and shares tremendous opportunities for the prosperity of global commerce and the safety of the global community through the peaceful use of space.

To learn more about Space Science and Exploration Program Activity, go to:
www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/publications/default.asp#parliament

Program Activity: Satellite Communications

Program Activity Priority: The program activity objective is to provide all Canadians with the means to participate and fully benefit from the global information age.


Satellite Communications (SC)
Program Activity Performance Measurement
Expected Result #1 Performance Indicators
State-of-the-art systems and applications are developed to satisfy the needs of the Canadian government and population in order to ensure that Canada remains a world leader in satellite communications. 1. Proportion of active missions relative to the total number of missions supported by Canada in the SC priority areas.

2. Number of technological applications developed as a result of CSA's participation in space missions and/or support to projects/activities in SC.

Planning and Reporting Continuity:

RPP 2008-2009 and DPR 2007-2008:
www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/publications/default.asp#parliament



Resources 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012
Financial($ in millions) 20.3 14.9 9.9
Humans(FTEs) 14.2 13.1 13.1

Summary of the Planning Highlights for Satellite Communications

  • The CSA will work to optimise the use of the Government of Canada capacity credit for broadband telecommunications services in the North. Additional demonstration of Ka-band technology will improve the use of the Anik F2 by northern communities for trials of innovative services by government departments. The contract for ground segment upgrades and the procurement for the terminals are expected to be completed by the end of 2009. The planning of the utilization phase for the years 7 and 8 is ongoing. A Call for Interest to potential end-users in the northern communities will be issued in summer 2009.
  • The CSA will complete the assessment of the requirements of the Canadian government users for a polar satellite system as part of a joint study with Department of National Defence and Environment Canada. The Concept of the Polar Communications and Weather Mission is to put a constellation of satellites in a highly elliptical orbit over the North Pole to monitor weather and provide communication services in the Arctic region. The weather component of the mission falls within the Earth Observation program activity, while the polar communication falls within the Satellite Communication program activity.
  • In 2004-2005, as part of the CASSIOPE Mission Contribution Program, the CSA initiated the development and demonstration of the Cascade telecommunications payload on a small satellite spacecraft. This small satellite spacecraft is fully designed and constructed by Canadian companies. Environmental testing of the spacecraft will be completed in 2009 with the launch scheduled for the end of the year. Cascade is the precursor of a communication satellite constellation that will help position Canadian industry on the international market, both as a supplier of advanced components and as a service provider of high-volume, high-data-rate tele-communications anywhere in the world.

Benefits for Canadians

Satellite Communications facilitates the linking of all Canadians by increasing the delivery of non-commercial services to Canadian remote communities, and support federal government department's program delivery.

Space infrastructure allows access and dissemination of timely health, cultural, security and safety related information to all Canadians wherever they live in Canada. Satellite communication is essential to provide Canadians living in remote areas with timely access to expert knowledge and expertise related to health and education through a range of non-commercial services including: e-government, e-learning, tele-justice, tele-education, as well as tele-medicine in areas such as tele-psychiatry, tele-radiology, tele-surgery, and tele-consultations.

To learn more about Satellite Communications Program Activity, go to:
www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/publications/default.asp#parliament

2.1.1 Program Sub-Activities in Earth Observation, Space Science and Exploration, and Satellite Communications

All three program activities, Earth Observation, Space Science and Exploration, and Satellite Communications, share the same three program sub-activities: Enabling Research, Space Mission Development and Space Mission Operations. The program sub-activities are measured with the same expected results and indicators which demonstrate how the combination of the three levels of its projects and activities' life cycle contributes synergistically across program activities to the achievement of the S&T Strategy's objective: "make Canada a world leader in science and technology and a key source of entrepreneurial innovation and creativity". In doing so, this level of performance measurement embraces the S&T Strategy principle: "enhancing accountability".

Program Sub-Activity: Enabling Research – EO, SE and SC

Objective: Provide leadership, coordination or support to Earth Observation, Space Science and Exploration, and Satellite Communications applied research and experimental development in line with the CSA's priorities and stakeholders' expectations in order to increase the knowledge base and devise new applications through space missions, and to allow the transfer of intellectual property and proven technologies to Canadian industry, academia, and government organizations.


Expected Result #1 Performance Indicators
New project/mission concepts that progress to subsequent development phases related to Agency's priorities. 1. Ratio of the number of new concepts presented to the number of new concepts retained for subsequent phase.

2. Quality of the concepts retained based on the average evaluation rating obtained according to the Priority Ranking Framework.

Expected Result #2 Performance Indicators
The CSA's in-house personnel are highly qualified, with recognized expertise, and are supported by a high-technology infrastructure that is suited to all Enabling Research projects/missions. 1. Number of consulting requests received by CSA personnel from external sources such as the private sector, academia and other space agencies.


Enabling Research Resources 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012
Financial
($ in millions)
Earth Observation 23.3 27.4 27.2
Space Science and Exploration 44.5 42.5 42.4
Satellite Communications 14.7 10.9 8.9
Human(FTEs) Earth Observation 14.6 14.6 14.6
Space Science and Exploration 47.6 43.7 39.3
Satellite Communications 0.0 0.0 0.0

Program Sub-Activity: Space Mission Development – EO, SE and SC

Objective: Provide coordination or support to the development of Earth Observation, Space Science and Exploration, and Satellite Communications space missions in line with CSA's priorities and stakeholders' expectations through the definition, critical design, manufacturing, integration, testing and delivery phases leading to launch and early operations of space systems.


Expected Result #1 Performance Indicators
Space mission proposals that efficiently, effectively and economically progress to subsequent operations phases in accordance with objectives, requirements, initial or revised specifications. 1. Percentage of projects requiring more than one EPA (Effective Project Approval) or an amendment to initial EPA over the total number of projects.
Expected Result #2 Performance Indicators
The CSA's in-house personnel are highly qualified, with recognized expertise, and are supported by a high-technology infrastructure that is suited to all Space Mission Development projects. 1. Rate of expertise matrix support to all of CSA's program activities.


Space Mission Development Resources 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012
Financial
($ in millions)
Earth Observation 48.2 43.8 64.3
Space Science and Exploration 43.4 19.8 8.5
Satellite Communications 5.6 4.0 0.9
Human(FTEs) Earth Observation 36.9 22.6 17.7
Space Science and Exploration 16.9 14.4 14.4
Satellite Communications 14.2 13.1 13.1

Program Sub-Activity: Space Mission Operations – EO and SE

Objective: Provide coordination or support to the operations of Earth Observation, and Space Science and Exploration space missions in line with the CSA's priorities and stakeholders' expectations through the development and conduct of on-orbit operations, system maintenance and logistic support, as well as data handling and delivery.


Expected Result #1 Performance Indicators
The CSA's in-house personnel are highly qualified, with recognized expertise, and are supported by a high-technology infrastructure that is suited to all Space Mission Operations activities. 1. Annual rate of investment in maintenance and improvement of the infrastructure required for missions in operation phases.

2. Quality of the internal expertise specializing in advice and technology-watch to ensure the successful flow of missions reaching operation phases.



Space Mission Operations Resources 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012
Financial
($ in millions)
Earth Observation 14.2 14.3 13.8
Space Science and Exploration 55.4 55.3 52.8
Human(FTEs) Earth Observation 26.5 27.3 27.5
Space Science and Exploration 127.5 125.0 124.5

2.2 Technology Development Program Activity

Program Activity:
Generic Technological Activities in support of Earth Observation,
Space Science and Exploration, and Satellite Communications

Program Activity Priority: Provide leadership, coordination or support to Earth Observation, Space Science and Exploration, and Satellite Communications through activities that are generic in their nature since they contribute to all three program activities.


Generic Technological Activities (GTA) in Support OF EO, SE and SC
Program Activity Performance Measurement
Expected Result #1 Performance Indicators
Canada's industrial technological capabilities can meet the needs of future space missions and activities. 1. Ratio of the number of priority technologies identified for future EO, SE and SC missions to the number of priority technologies developed in GTA.

2. Number of priority technologies supported that are ready to be used.

Planning and Reporting Continuity:

RPP 2008-2009 and DPR 2007-2008:
www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/publications/default.asp#parliament



Resources 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012
Financial($ in millions) 53.8 55.6 57.8
Humans(FTEs) 137.7 151.8 156.1

Summary of the Planning Highlights of Generic Technological Activities

  • Through a variety of procurement mechanisms, the Space Technology Development Program will encourage industry and research organizations to propose innovative technologies, retire risk on the critical technologies required for future missions of Canadian interest, and contribute to the enhancement of Canadian capabilities.
  • The CSA will manage its portfolio of patents and intellectual property licenses and conduct commercialization assessments in order to support the transfer of space technologies and their applications to other sectors of the economy and enhance Canada's industrial competitiveness.
  • The David Florida Laboratory will continue to provide world-class and cost-effective environmental space qualification services for the assembly, integration and testing of spacecraft systems to CSA's programs, as well as national and international clients.

Benefits for Canadians

Through its R&D investments and the resulting transfers of applications to the private and public sectors, the CSA's programs and activities attract highly educated and highly skilled labour that contributes to Canada's knowledge-based economy; helps enhance the Canadian space industry's competitiveness by encouraging dynamic trade relationships with other nations; and increases Canada's ability to compete in the global marketplace.

To learn more about Generic Technological Activities Supporting Earth Observation, Space Science and Exploration, and Satellite Communications Program Activity, go to:
www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/publications/default.asp#parliament

2.2.1 Technology Development Program Sub-Activities

This program activity has two program sub-activity levels: Enabling Research and Space Mission Development. The combination of the two levels of its projects and activities' life cycle contributes synergistically to the achievement of the S&T Strategy's objective: "make Canada a world leader in science and technology and a key source of entrepreneurial innovation and creativity". In doing so, this level of performance measurement embraces the S&T Strategy principle: "enhancing accountability".

Program Sub-Activity:
Enabling Research - GTA in support of EO,SE and SC

Objective: Provide leadership, coordination or support EO, SE and SC applied research and experimental development in line with the CSA's priorities and stakeholders' expectations.


Expected Result #1 Performance Indicators
Space technology concepts that support projects/missions related to Agency's priorities. 1. Rate of adherence to the technology development plan/track records.
Expected Result #2 Performance Indicators
Canadian industries and research organizations that are actively involved in space R&D. 1. Number of requests received vs. the number of requests accepted.

2. Number of requests received vs. the number of requests funded.



Resources 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012
Financial
($ in millions)
46.2 46.0 46.0
Humans(FTEs) 94.7 108.8 113.1

Program Sub-Activity: Space Mission Development – GTA in support of EO, SE and SC

Objective: Provide coordination or support to the development of EO,
SE and SC space missions in line with CSA's priorities and stakeholders' expectations through the definition, critical design, manufacturing, integration, testing and delivery phases leading to launch and early operations of space systems.


Expected Result #1 Performance Indicators
The CSA's in-house personnel are highly qualified, with recognized expertise, and are supported by a high-technology infrastructure that is suited to all Space Mission Development projects. 1. Number of aerospace related missions, projects/activities supported by David Florida Laboratory (DFL) facilities.


Resources 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012
Financial
($ in millions)
7.6 9.6 11.8
Humans(FTEs) 43.0 43.0 43.0

2.3 Space Awareness and Learning Program Activities

Program Activity: Space Awareness and Learning

Program Activity Priority: The program activity objective is to further public understanding and engagement with regards to space related issues, ultimately leading to improving the scientific literacy of Canadians by carrying out a national awareness and learning initiative in support of the Canadian Space Program.


Space Awareness and Learning
Program Activity Performance Measurement
Expected Result #1 Performance Indicators
Targeted level of awareness of space among Canadians is reached. 1. Survey results obtained every 3 years.
Planning and Reporting Continuity:

RPP 2008-2009 and DPR 2007-2008:
www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/publications/default.asp#parliament



Resources 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012
Financial
($ in millions)
8.9 8.8 8.8
Humans(FTEs) 26.0 24.0 24.0

Summary of the Planning Highlights for Space Awareness and Learning

  • CSA will carry out two awareness campaigns, one related to Canadian astronaut missions, Dr. Robert Thirsk who will remain on the International Space Station for a stay of 6 months, and Julie Payette on the Space Shuttle Endeavour; and the other supporting the launches of Canadian satellites NEOSSAT and CASSIOPE.
  • CSA will pursue professional development workshops and teaching initiatives and will expand access by primary and secondary level students and educators to space learning materials through partnered initiatives with schools and other institutions.

Benefits for Canadians

The CSA fosters science and technology literacy as a mean to influence the career choices of young Canadians towards science and technology. It also offers opportunities to enhance the expertise of Canadian scientists, engineers and physicians in space science, space technology and space medicine.

To learn more about Space Awareness and Learning Program Activity, go to:
www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/publications/default.asp#parliament

2.3.1 Space Awareness and Learning Program Sub-Activities

This program activity has two program sub-activity levels: Awareness and Learning. The combination of the two levels of projects and activities contributes synergistically to the achievement of the S&T Strategy's objective: "make Canada a world leader in science and technology and a key source of entrepreneurial innovation and creativity". In doing so, this level of performance measurement embraces the S&T Strategy principle: "enhancing accountability".

Program Sub-Activity: Awareness

Objective: Increase public awareness and understanding of how space affects and improves the quality of life.


Expected Result #1 Performance Indicators
Target audience is reached through outreach activities. 1. Number of initiatives according to targeted audiences.


Resources 2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011
Financial
($ in millions)
5.9 5.9 5.9
Humans(FTEs) 21.0 19.0 19.0

Program Sub-Activity: Learning

Objective: Direct a sustained multi-dimensional and inter-active learning program to build knowledge and enhance interest in space science and technology.


Expected Result #1 Performance Indicators
Canadian educators and students further their learning related to science and technology through the space theme. 1. Number of educators reached through professional development initiatives.

2. Number of students reached through learning activities.



Resources 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012
Financial
($ in millions)
3.0 2.9 2.9
Humans(FTEs) 5.0 5.0 5.0

2.4 Internal Services Program Activities

Program Activity: Internal Services

Program Activity Priority: To implement the government's commitment to modern public service management in accordance with the Management Accountability Frameworks expectations.


Internal Services
Program Activity Performance Measurement
Expected Result #1 Performance Indicators
Internal Services provide an added value to CSA managers in the performance of their duties. 1. Internal Services provided meet standards set under government-wide policies.

2. CSA's rating against MAF criteria based on Round VI assessment.

Expected Result #2 Performance Indicators
The three highest priority risks identified in the CSA corporate risk profile are addressed and mitigated. 1. Mitigation action plans are implemented against the three corporate risks identified as highest priorities.
Planning and Reporting Continuity:

RPP 2008-2009 and DPR 2007-2008:
www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/publications/default.asp#parliament



Resources 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012
Financial
($ in millions)
43.0 41.6 41.7
Humans(FTEs) 263.4 267.7 266.8

2.4.1 Internal Services Program Sub-Activities

This program activity has three program sub-activity levels: Governance and Management Support, Resources Management Services and Asset Management Services. However, the sub-activity Asset Management Services is not addressed in this report.

Program Sub-Activity: Governance and Management Support

Objective: Implement the government's commitment to modern public service management in the area of governance and management support in accordance with the Management Accountability Framework's expectations.


Resources 2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011
Financial
($ in millions)
10.3 10.5 10.6
Humans(FTEs) 60.0 64.9 65.0

Summary of the Planning Highlights for Governance and Management Support

  • In order to align the CSA's strategies, planning priorities, funding levels, and operations, once approved by the government, the Long Term Space Plan will be integrated in the corporate finances, work planning, and performance measurement information systems for the planning of 2010-2011. In the interim, the CSA performance data analysis capacity will be upgraded to meet the performance measurement framework requirements by 2010-2011.
  • In order to ensure that ongoing departmental operation control processes are audited, the CSA will implement a departmental audit committee, in collaboration with the Treasury Board Secretariat (TBS). This committee will be responsible to follow-up on the action plans prepared after internal audit reports.
  • In order that project and program management meets standards set by the new Government wide Project Management Policy, the CSA will submit TBS a Project Capacity and Risk Assessment in 2009-2010.
Program Sub-Activity: Resources Management Services

Objective: Implement the government's commitment to modern public service management in the area of resource management support in accordance with the Management Accountability Framework's expectations.


Resources 2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011
Financial
($ in millions)
18.8 17.2 17.2
Humans(FTEs) 169.0 167.8 166.8

Summary of the Planning Highlights for Resources Management Services

  • In order to align the CSA's strategies, planning priorities, funding levels, and operations, once approved by the government, the Long Term Space Plan will be integrated in the corporate financial systems at the beginning of 2010-2011.
  • The CSA will fine tune its internal control procedures to assure its managers that all payments are compliant with current financial policies.
  • The CSA will continue the implementation of its 2007-2010 Integrated Corporate Human Resources Plan and will integrate the key leadership competency profile into its human resources strategies and management activities.