Collaboration to stimulate innovation in the space sector and encourage cross-fertilization of Earth-Space RD: a study using bibliometrics and surveys of the Canadian space sector

摘要

Collaboration amongst universities, industries and government organizations is an important driver of innovation in science and technology due to the complementarity of expertise and resources. Inter-institutional collaborations have the potential to accelerate innovation, promote the creation of spin-in/spin-offs and ensure sustainable funding of research and innovation programs. Even though important benefits can come from these interactions, many organizations in the space sector are sensitive in sharing information and engaging in different kinds of collaborations. To better understand collaboration practices in the Canadian space sector, a survey was sent to Canadian private firms and researchers; questions were related to mechanisms used, reasons and challenges, types of activities, outputs, limitations and benefits. This survey provided significant insights as to how organizations interact and how they approach collaboration. Combined with a bibliometric research on Canadian publications, this study also presented opportunities to promote cross-fertilization of research and innovation. This paper will present the results and discuss innovative ways to collaborate to break down the silos and maximize outputs and benefits to address terrestrial and space needs.