Telesat advances Telesat Lightspeed terrestrial network with new Quebec and Saskatchewan landing station sites

Telesat announced the acquisition of land in Estevan, Saskatchewan and Papineauville, Quebec, and the lease of land in Shaunavon, Saskatchewan. These sites will host new landing stations that will route data between the Telesat Lightspeed Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network and major fibre and internet exchange points.  The geographically diverse locations enhance network resiliency and performance for the satellite network.

As the largest space program in Canada’s history, Telesat Lightspeed will expand the reach of terrestrial telecom networks and help bridge the digital divide by delivering secure, high‑speed broadband connectivity worldwide. These landing stations will help enable sovereign, next‑generation digital services and support Canada’s economic growth, while reinforcing the protection of Arctic and northern territories.

“Telesat is rapidly advancing the global buildout of the terrestrial infrastructure that will be fully integrated with our LEO satellites, and these Quebec and Saskatchewan sites are playing pivotal roles in that progress,” said Asit Tandon, Telesat’s Chief Network and Information Officer. “These strategically located facilities strengthen connectivity across Canada and contribute to the worldwide terrestrial foundation we are establishing ahead of our first satellite launch in December.”

Site preparation is now underway. The Quebec landing station is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2026 with the Saskatchewan sites to follow by year end.