# Communications Research Centre Canada

> Canadian science laboratory for communications research

**Wikidata**: [Q2945478](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q2945478)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Communications_Research_Centre_Canada)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/communications-research-centre-canada

## Summary  
The Communications Research Centre Canada (CRC) is a federal government research institute dedicated to advancing communications science and technology. Established in 1969, it operates under Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada and is headquartered in Ottawa, Ontario.

## Key Facts  
- Founded in 1969 as Canada’s national laboratory for communications research  
- Operates under the portfolio of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada since 1994  
- Headquartered in Ottawa, Ontario with geographic coordinates at latitude 45.3463 and longitude -75.8841  
- Formerly known as Defence Research Telecommunications Establishment (DRTE)  
- Owns or has operated key Canadian satellites including Alouette 1, Alouette 2, and the Communications Technology Satellite  
- Official website available in English and French: [http://www.crc.gc.ca](http://www.crc.gc.ca)  
- Identified by ROR ID 05dybt340 and GRID ID grid.424140.7  
- Part of the global research ecosystem with links across Wikipedia (en/fr), Wikidata, VIAF, and Library of Congress  

## FAQs  
### Q: What does the Communications Research Centre Canada do?  
A: The CRC conducts scientific research and development in telecommunications and broadcasting technologies. It supports innovation in wireless systems, satellite communications, and spectrum management to benefit both industry and government operations in Canada.

### Q: Who owns or runs the Communications Research Centre Canada?  
A: The CRC is a federal government agency operating under Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. It was originally established in 1969 and previously functioned under the Department of National Defence as the Defence Research Telecommunications Establishment.

### Q: Has the CRC launched any notable satellites or space missions?  
A: Yes, the CRC played a significant role in developing and operating early Canadian satellites such as Alouette 1 and Alouette 2, which were among the world's first scientific satellites, and the Communications Technology Satellite, a pioneering international project in digital communications.

## Why It Matters  
The Communications Research Centre Canada plays a critical role in shaping Canada’s technological landscape through advanced research in communication sciences. As the nation’s premier lab for telecom and broadcasting R&D, it contributes to innovations that support public safety networks, improve wireless infrastructure, and enable next-generation satellite systems. Its legacy includes foundational work on ionospheric research via the Alouette program—establishing Canada as a leader in space science during the mid-20th century. By bridging academic research and practical application, the CRC helps inform policy decisions related to radiofrequency spectrum use, ensures secure military communications, and fosters collaboration between Canadian industries and international partners.

## Notable For  
- Pioneering Canada’s first successful scientific satellites: Alouette 1 (launched 1962) and Alouette 2  
- Developing the Communications Technology Satellite (CTS), an influential early digital communications satellite used internationally  
- Serving as the origin point for much of Canada’s expertise in space-based communications and ionospheric studies  
- Hosting one of the longest-running government-led communications research programs in North America  
- Maintaining dual-language accessibility and transparency through bilingual websites and open documentation  

## Body  
### History and Evolution  
The Communications Research Centre Canada originated in 1969 as the Defence Research Telecommunications Establishment (DRTE). Initially focused on defense-related electronic and radar research, DRTE evolved into a broader civilian-oriented institution following its transfer to Industry Canada in 1994. Since then, it has maintained its status as a leading authority in communications science within the Canadian federal structure.

### Organizational Structure  
As part of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, the CRC functions as a specialized research arm responsible for conducting applied research in telecommunications and information technologies. It collaborates closely with other governmental bodies, academia, and private sector firms to develop standards, test new technologies, and provide expert analysis on regulatory matters involving electromagnetic spectrum usage.

### Major Projects and Contributions  
#### Satellites  
- **Alouette 1** – Launched in 1962, this top-side sounder studied Earth’s ionosphere and marked Canada’s entry into the space age. Though predating the formal CRC establishment, the project laid the groundwork for future CRC-led initiatives.  
- **Alouette 2** – A follow-up mission launched in 1965, continuing ionospheric observations and demonstrating enhanced capabilities in small spacecraft design.  
- **Communications Technology Satellite (CTS)** – Jointly developed with NASA and launched in 1976, this satellite pioneered direct-to-home TV transmission using high-power Ku-band signals, influencing modern satellite broadcasting systems globally.

#### Spectrum and Wireless Technologies  
The CRC continues to lead efforts in optimizing the use of radio frequencies, particularly in emerging domains like 5G networks, Internet of Things (IoT), and cognitive radios. Their research informs national policies and international coordination through organizations such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

#### Collaborative Efforts  
Through partnerships with universities, foreign agencies, and commercial enterprises, the CRC facilitates knowledge exchange and accelerates innovation cycles. These collaborations often result in patents, technical reports, and peer-reviewed publications that advance global understanding of communication systems.

---

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  "name": "Communications Research Centre Canada",
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## References

1. GRID Release 2017-01-10
2. Virtual International Authority File
3. GRID Release 2016-05-31
4. Quora
5. Aligned ISNI and Ringgold identifiers for institutions