1. National Research Council of Canada (NRC)

The National Research Council of Canada (NRC) plays a significant role in Canada's space program and astronomical research. They collaborate with various international space agencies and organizations to contribute to space exploration and advance knowledge in astronomy. Some of their initiatives include:

• NRC manages the Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory (DRAO) located in Penticton, British Columbia. DRAO conducts research in radio astronomy and radio frequency interference mitigation, supporting both Canadian and international astronomical projects.
• NRC's Herzberg Astronomy and Astrophysics Research Centre in Victoria, British Columbia, conducts research in various areas of astronomy and astrophysics, contributing to both ground-based and space-based observatories.

2. Canadian Space Agency (CSA)

The Canadian Space Agency (CSA) is the official organization responsible for coordinating Canada's space-related activities, including their role in space exploration and astronomy. Some important aspects of CSA's involvement include:

• CSA was a partner in the International Space Station (ISS) program, contributing the Canadarm2 robotic system and the Dextre robotic manipulator to assist with various tasks on the space station. The CSA also provides astronauts who participate in ISS missions.
• The CSA developed and operates the RADARSAT series satellites, which provide Earth observation data to support environmental monitoring, disaster management, and maritime surveillance. These satellites also aid in studying various astronomical phenomena.

3. University Research and Astronomy Institutions

Several universities and research institutions in Canada actively contribute to space program research and astronomical studies. Some prominent examples include:

• The University of Toronto's Dunlap Institute for Astronomy & Astrophysics conducts research in various areas of astronomy and astrophysics. They collaborate with international partners and utilize space telescopes and observatories to explore the cosmos.
• McGill University's Astrophysics and Cosmology Group contributes to the study of cosmic microwave background radiation, galaxy evolution, and gravitational wave detection. They work closely with international teams and have access to cutting-edge observatories.

4. Participation in International Collaborations

Canada actively participates in various international collaborations and partnerships related to space and astronomy. Examples include:

• Canada is a member of the European Space Agency (ESA), allowing Canadian researchers and industries to contribute to ESA missions and access ESA facilities.
• Canada is also an active participant in the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project, an international effort to build the world's largest radio telescope. Canadian researchers contribute to the development of SKA and utilize its data for astronomical research.