Telesat purchases real estate in Timmins to develop Landing Station site for Telesat Lightspeed Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network

Executive Summary

• Telesat announced the purchase of a land plot on Laforest Road in Timmins, Ontario, to build a new Landing Station for its Lightspeed LEO satellite network.
• Site preparation has begun; construction of antennas and networking equipment is slated to start in spring 2026.
• The landing station will enhance broadband connectivity for remote communities and support critical industries (energy, mining, aviation, maritime) while contributing to Canada’s space economy and Arctic sovereignty.

Key Details

• Land Acquisition: Telesat bought a parcel of land from the City of Timmins; exact size not disclosed.
• Purpose: The site will serve as a terrestrial Landing Station linking Lightspeed satellite data to fiber‑optic Points of Presence in Northern Ontario.
• Construction Timeline: Land clearing is underway; antenna and networking equipment installation scheduled for spring 2026.
• Strategic Benefits: Improves resiliency and redundancy of Telesat’s global landing station network; leverages Timmins’ 2,200 km fiber backbone, hydroelectric power, and proximity to Southern Ontario & Western Quebec.
• Economic Impact: Expected to bridge the digital divide in rural/remote communities, support energy, mining, aviation, maritime sectors, and stimulate local space‑related economic activity.
• Stakeholder Quotes:
• Asit Tandon (Chief Network & Information Officer, Telesat) highlighted Timmins’ infrastructure and suitability for a resilient landing station.
• Mayor Michelle Boileau emphasized the project’s role in advancing Canada’s largest space program and local innovation.
• Brenda Camirand (Director of Economic Development, City of Timmins) noted the strategic advantage and economic growth potential.

Notable Quotes

• “Timmins offers access to superior telecommunications infrastructure… making it an ideal location to meet the stringent resiliency requirements for our terrestrial Landing Station network.” – Asit Tandon, Chief Network and Information Officer, Telesat
• “Telesat’s investment highlights the strength of our city’s infrastructure and our position as a hub for innovation in Northern Ontario.” – Mayor Michelle Boileau
• “This project marks a significant milestone for Timmins, reinforcing our commitment to supporting innovative industries and attracting investment that drives economic growth.” – Brenda Camirand, Director of Economic Development, City of Timmins