Aerospace

On this page:

• University of Toronto Institute for Aerospace Studies (UTIAS)
• University of Toronto Robotics Institute
• Centre for Aerial Robotics Research and Education (CARRE)
• Autonomous Space Robotics Laboratory (ASRL)
• Downsview Aerospace Innovation & Research (DAIR)
• Creative Destruction Lab Space Stream (CDL Space)

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University of Toronto Institute for Aerospace Studies (UTIAS)

The University of Toronto Institute for Aerospace Studies (UTIAS) is a globally recognized centre for research and graduate education in aerospace engineering, robotics, and space systems. UTIAS advances foundational and applied research in aerodynamics, structures, propulsion, autonomy and spaceflight, supported by strong international partnerships and deep industry engagement. Through initiatives such as Start@UTIAS, the Institute also accelerates the translation of aerospace and robotics innovations into real-world applications.

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University of Toronto Robotics Institute

The University of Toronto Robotics Institute is a globally recognized hub for interdisciplinary research in robotics, artificial intelligence, and autonomous systems. Bringing together researchers from engineering, computer science, health and design, the Institute advances foundational and applied work in perception, manipulation, human-robot interaction and learning-enabled autonomy. Its facilities include a dedicated indoor drone testing arena supporting safe, controlled experimentation in aerial autonomy, navigation and sensing.

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Centre for Aerial Robotics Research and Education (CARRE)

The Centre for Aerial Robotics Research and Education (CARRE), part of the UTIAS ecosystem, is a University of Toronto initiative that expands and unifies research and teaching in the rapidly growing field of aerial robotics. CARRE supports the development of new technologies, advanced training of highly qualified personnel, and the dissemination of research outcomes to strengthen Canada’s aerial robotics innovation capacity.

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Autonomous Space Robotics Laboratory (ASRL)

The Autonomous Space Robotics Laboratory (ASRL), part of the UTIAS ecosystem, is a research group focused on advancing visual navigation, localization, and mapping for mobile robots in both space and terrestrial environments through methods like Visual Teach & Repeat and SLAM. Their work produces datasets, software and algorithms that support long-term autonomous robot navigation without GPS, applicable to planetary rovers, field robotics and other mobile systems.

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Downsview Aerospace Innovation & Research (DAIR)

The Downsview Aerospace Innovation & Research (DAIR) is a collaborative innovation platform linking industry, academia, and government within Canada’s aerospace ecosystem. As a funding partner, the University of Toronto contributes research expertise and participates in shared R&D initiatives focused on aeroacoustics, advanced materials, propulsion and next-generation aerospace systems. DAIR provides access to secure research space and state-of-the-art facilities, supporting advanced aerospace development and commercialization.

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Creative Destruction Lab Space Stream (CDL Space)

The CDL Space Stream is an objectives-based accelerator that helps early-stage space and space-related technology startups grow by pairing them with world-class mentors (including entrepreneurs, investors, and astronauts) to sharpen business strategy, raise capital, and scale technologies in areas like satellite communications, Earth observation, robotics, AI and more. In addition, the CDL Defence Stream augments this initiative by helping ventures align to real buyer needs, navigate government pathways, and build evidence toward testing and procurement with allied partners.