Canada is expanding its role in protecting astronauts as international partners prepare for future missions to the Moon and beyond. A new federal contract awarded to an Ontario aerospace firm aims to improve how radiation exposure is measured aboard the International Space Station (ISS), while also delivering benefits for industries back on Earth.
Canadian Space Agency funds radiation detection technology
The Canadian Space Agency has awarded a $5.5-million contract to Bubble Technology Industries, a defence and aerospace company based in Chalk River, Ont., to develop a compact tool that will measure neutron radiation exposure in space.
Known as the Canadian Active Neutron Spectrometer (CANS), the device will operate autonomously aboard the ISS, collecting data on radiation levels experienced by astronauts. The project is part of Canada’s contribution to international human spaceflight efforts, including planned lunar missions under programs such as Artemis.
In a statement, Industry Minister Mélanie Joly said the technology will provide researchers with “practical data to help protect astronauts from harmful radiation.” She added the innovation could also support radiation safety in sectors on Earth, including nuclear energy and medical care, where exposure risks are present.
Why monitoring neutron radiation matters
Radiation in space poses one of the most significant health risks to astronauts. Unlike on Earth, where the atmosphere and magnetic field provide protection, astronauts are exposed to higher levels of cosmic radiation — energy released as particles or electromagnetic waves.
Neutron radiation accounts for roughly 30 per cent of the radiation inside spacecraft. It forms when cosmic rays interact with spacecraft materials, stripping electrons from atoms and leaving behind highly energetic particles.
Exposure can lead to immediate health effects such as radiation sickness, as well as long-term risks including bone marrow damage and cancer. By specifically measuring neutron radiation, the CANS instrument is expected to give mission planners and medical teams more accurate data to reduce those risks.
This information will become increasingly important as space agencies plan longer missions, including potential stays on the lunar surface and, eventually, crewed missions to Mars.
Building on Canada’s established expertise in space safety
The new contract builds on earlier work by Bubble Technology Industries. The company previously received a $505,000 Phase A contract from the CSA to develop a prototype of the neutron spectrometer.
BTI has also contributed radiation detection equipment to past Canadian space experiments. Its “bubble monitors,” which use small tubes to detect radiation, were deployed on the ISS as part of the Radi-N2 experiment. That research included work conducted by Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield, one of the country’s most recognized space figures.
Founded in 1988 in Ontario’s Ottawa Valley — a region known for its nuclear research and proximity to Chalk River Laboratories — BTI specializes in radiation detection technologies for defence, aerospace and emergency response.
Technology with applications beyond space
While designed for astronauts, the technology has practical uses on Earth. Radiation detection tools are critical in nuclear power plants, cancer treatment facilities, and emergency situations involving hazardous materials.
Bubble Technology Industries produces a range of radiation monitoring equipment, including its FlexSpec neutron sensor systems, which can be installed in vehicles, aircraft and ships. The company also manufactures handheld devices used by military personnel and first responders to detect radiation threats.
Such technologies play a role in Canada’s broader nuclear sector, which includes major facilities in Ontario and New Brunswick and supports thousands of skilled jobs.
Supporting Canada’s future in space exploration
The CANS project reflects Canada’s ongoing contribution to international space missions. Canadian robotics, science and astronaut participation have long been part of the ISS program, and the country is also providing the Canadarm3 robotic system for the planned lunar Gateway station.
Improved radiation monitoring will help ensure astronauts can safely take part in these longer and more distant missions.
Conclusion
The $5.5-million contract awarded to Bubble Technology Industries marks a significant step in protecting astronaut health while reinforcing Canada’s role in space innovation. As human space exploration moves farther from Earth, accurate radiation detection will be essential — not only for astronaut safety, but also for advancing radiation protection technologies here at home.
