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Starsailor

Concordia students reach for space.

On August 15, 2025, Concordia students made history with the launch of Starsailor.

The liquid-fuel rocket, designed and built entirely by students at the Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science, became the first of its kind in Canada to fly and marked the country’s first attempted space launch from domestic soil in more than 25 years.

About the mission

Since 2018, more than 700 students have helped design, test and launch Starsailor, making it one of the most advanced student rocketry programs in the world.

The 13-metre rocket was designed to reach space, crossing the Kármán line at 100 kilometres above Earth. With approval from Transport Canada, the mission met the same safety standards as a professional launch.

The team is already working on Starsailor II, advancing Canada’s student-led aerospace leadership.

Space Concordia students in a group photo at the StarSailor launch
Space Concordia students and Mistissini community gather for a photo with the Starsailor rocket

The launch

On August 15, 2025, after nearly a week of rain and wind, clear skies opened over a remote site about 250 kilometres north of Mistissini. The location was chosen for its vast open space and safe distance from populated areas.

At 5:34 a.m., Starsailor lifted off the launch tower and soared into the sky. The rocket separated earlier than planned and did not reach space, yet the flight was a breakthrough for Concordia students and for Canadian aerospace.

The StarSailor rocket launching Photo credit: Gabriel Dupras
Space Concordia students hug and celebrate after the launch

Collaboration with the Cree Nation of Mistissini

The mission was carried out in partnership with the Cree Nation of Mistissini, whose community is closest to the launch site. Students worked with local leaders to ensure the project respected the land and created opportunities for youth to explore science and technology.

Space Concordia student smiled with Mistissini community children
Space Concordia student poses with Mistissini children
Space Concordia with Mistissini community
Space Concordia students pose with children from the Mistissini community

Donor support

Starsailor was made possible thanks to the generosity of donors, alumni and industry partners who supported the project at every stage.

Special recognition goes to Gina Cody, namesake of the school, whose contribution helped make the launch possible. We also thank Lorne Trottier and the Trottier Family Foundation, whose long-term support carried the project from design through years of development.

Starsailor in the news

Starsailor captured national attention and was featured in Concordia News as well as major media outlets across Canada.

Discover our programs

Starsailor shows what is possible when students put their knowledge into action. At the Gina Cody School and across Concordia, you will find opportunities to join Space Concordia and contribute in your own field of expertise, whether in engineering, business or science.

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