Modern satellite networks depend on the movement of information between spacecraft, ground stations and end users around the world. U of T startup Kepler Communications is building a space-based communications network that allows satellites to exchange data directly in orbit, creating what the company describes as “the internet for space.”
Founded in 2015 by U of T graduate students through the University of Toronto Aerospace Team, Kepler is developing a network of satellites that use laser links to transfer data across thousands of kilometres. The company’s early development was supported by the U of T Entrepreneurship ecosystem, including the Entrepreneurship Hatchery, Start@UTIAS and the Creative Destruction Lab. CEO and co-founder Mina Mitry is a U of T Engineering alumnus and, under his leadership, Kepler has raised more than $200 million and earned industry recognition, including being named one of Fast Company’s most innovative companies in space.
Satellites support communications, navigation, Earth observation and surveillance, but the value of that information depends on how quickly it can be delivered. By allowing data to move directly between spacecraft, Kepler’s network could help government, defence and commercial users access information faster and make better use of assets already in orbit.
That capability is already being explored for Canadian defence. In 2025, Kepler was awarded a multi-year contract from Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC) to demonstrate real-time data sharing and connectivity for continental defence and Arctic operations. The project explores how space-based communications can support networks in remote regions.
Growing demand for the company’s technology has been matched by the expansion of its satellite network. In January 2026, Kepler launched 10 satellites aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, bringing its fleet to 33 spacecraft and creating the largest fleet of Canadian-built spacecraft in orbit. Kepler also gained international recognition after being selected as the prime contractor for the European Space Agency’s HydRON Element 3 project, part of ESA’s effort to develop a high-throughput optical communications network in space.
Kepler’s growth has been supported by significant public and private investment to expand its satellite network and optical communications capabilities. In 2026, FedDev Ontario announced an additional $7 million in support for the company to advance made-in-Canada technologies with defence and dual-use applications.
With Canada looking to strengthen its presence in space, communications networks will be as important as the satellites themselves in orbit. Through its optical communications network, Kepler is helping build the infrastructure that will support future scientific, commercial and defence missions.
