A Vancouver tech startup specializing in ultra-high-definition cameras for outer space is partnering up with a U.S. intelligence agency.
UrtheCast (TSX:UR) says an agreement with the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) would allow the two groups to co-operate on research and development for highly specialized Earth observation satellites.
The NGA is a combat-support agency under the U.S. Department of Defense. Its mandate is to assist with mapping in support of national security.
This isn’t the Vancouver company’s first connection to the American intelligence agency.
Former NGA director Tish Long joined UrtheCast’s boardroom a year ago.
A few months after Long joined, UrtheCast announced plans to develop its OptiSAR (multispectral optical and synthetic aperture radar) constellation.
The OptiSAR project is made up of 16 satellites scanning the planet. UrtheCast said it expects the constellation to begin operations by 2020 following multiple satellite launches.
The RnD arrangement between UrtheCast and the NGA is related to the OptiSAR program.
