C-CORE Awarded IDEaS Grant to Advance Arctic Ice Navigation
C-CORE has been building expert systems to aid in navigation on and in ice infested waters since the launch of RADARSAT-1 in 1995. Our systems have grown in accuracy and utility to the point where we are providing real-time exploitation of multiple satellite data feeds to gain robust intelligence on ice extent, ice pressure, and ice drift — real products that provide actionable intelligence to plan safer routes, avoid vessel damage and keep safe travel to communities in the Arctic.
Through the Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) NORAD Modernization S&T Contest, the IDEaS has provided funding to C-CORE to help further develop Arctic monitoring and ice mapping tools for the protection of the Arctic. This award will help further C-CORE’s on-going contribution to safety and resilience of navigation in ice-affected waters.
Leveraging Earth Observation (EO) data, machine learning, and physical environmental modeling, C-CORE delivers near real-time and forecast ice pressure and drift products. These tools will help the Royal Canadian Navy plan safer routes through sea ice, avoid high-pressure zones that can damage vessels, and support Indigenous communities by mapping landfast ice near traditional, historic, and cultural areas. With a focus on operational integration, this project marks a major step forward in Arctic situational awareness and defence readiness.