Canso spaceport construction delayed until later this year

The start date for the construction of Canada's only commercial spaceport has been pushed back.

Stephen Matier, president of Maritime Launch Services, had hoped to break ground this month on the $200-million project on Nova Scotia's Eastern Shore.

But Matier now says the rocket launch site in Canso likely won't start being developed until later this year although he was hesitant to impose any new timeline.

The project doesn't plan to put humans into space, but is rather aimed at attracting consortiums of firms that want to put satellites into orbit for commercial purposes, such as near-Earth imaging.

It's a private-sector venture, but requires the province's environmental approvaland further regulatory approvals for launching procedures.

Environmental assessment

There are still a number of hurdles to overcome before construction can begin, but Matier said good progress has been made.

Matier said last week, he met with provincial and federal officials, aerospace companies, environmental firms, engineering firms and construction companies.

He also visited the site in Canso and met with a community group that included officials with Guysborough County, the fisheries industry and residents.

Matier saidhis company will submit an environment assessment to the province within the next month. That assessment will also go to Nova Scotia's Natural Resources Department as part of the land lease application.

Matier said the company is still aiming for the first round of satellite launches to begin in 2021.