Canadian Centre for Space Isotopes launches in Toronto

The Nuclear Innovation Institute has launched the Canadian Centre for Space Isotopes in Toronto. This member-based, not-for-profit organization aims to position Canada as a leader in supplying radioactive isotopes required to power deep-space probes and rovers.

Radioisotope power systems function by converting the heat generated from decaying isotopes into electricity. This technology is essential for long-duration missions traveling far from the Sun, where solar panels become less effective, and for providing heat in extremely cold environments. While NASA has utilized this technology for decades, the global supply of necessary isotopes is currently described as ‘critically low.’

The centre will conduct research, policy work, and industry engagement through 2030, with a specific report on Canada’s opportunities in the space isotope market expected in early 2027. Former astronaut Chris Hadfield spoke at the launch, highlighting Canada’s engineering capabilities and raw materials as key assets for competing in this emerging market.