Build Canada's Next student satellite
MANTIS is a student satellite project, bringing together students from across engineering, computer science, physics, mathematics, management, and other applied sciences to design, build, test, and operate a spacecraft from the ground up.
Whether you’re interested in electronics, programming, mechanical design, communications, team management, or simply want to learn something new, MANTIS offers the opportunity to gain hands-on experience while working alongside a passionate team of students.
WHo can join
We welcome students from all years and many different academic programs, including:
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Computer Science
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Applied Sciences
- Management
- Communications
- Any student with an interest in space technology
If you’re excited to learn and contribute, we’d love to have you on the team.
what can you work on
MANTIS is made up of several technical teams, giving students the opportunity to explore different areas of engineering and discover what interests them most.
Depending on your interests, you may work on:
- Mechanical and Chassis
- Electrical Power Systems
- Payload and Onboard Computer AI
- Attitude Determination and Control Systems (ADCS)
- Communications
- Command Data and Handling (Software)
- Thermal
- Team Operations (Coming Soon)
Feel free to explore our website to learn more about each unique subsystem. No matter which subsystem you join, you’ll gain practical experience while contributing to a shared mission.
How to join
Step by step
Getting involved is easy.
- Fill out our interest form using the QR code or online application.
- Attend one of our introductory information sessions.
- Meet the team and learn about our different subsystems.
- Choose the area that interests you most.
- Start building, learning, and contributing.
New members are welcome throughout the year, although the beginning of each semester is our primary recruitment period.
why join mantis
University courses provide the theory behind engineering, but MANTIS gives you the opportunity to apply those concepts to a real project with real challenges.
As a member of the team, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Gain practical engineering experience outside the classroom.
- Develop technical and professional skills.
- Collaborate with students from various disciplines and degrees.
- Build friendships within a supportive community.
- Strengthen your résumé with meaningful project experience.
Whether you’re planning a career in aerospace, electronics, software, communications, or another field, the experience you gain through MANTIS will help prepare you for internships, co-op positions, and future employment.
everyone starts somewhere
One of the biggest misconceptions about student design teams is that you need years of technical experience before you can contribute.
You don’t.
Many of our members join during their first year of university with little or no experience in satellite systems or practical engineering. Our team is built around mentorship, collaboration, and continuous learning. Experienced members are always available to answer questions, explain concepts, and help new students develop their skills.
If you’re motivated to learn, you’ll fit right in.
learn new skills
Throughout the year, MANTIS hosts beginner-friendly workshops designed to help new members build confidence and develop practical engineering skills.
Workshops may include:
- Electronics fundamentals
- Soldering and circuit assembly
- Arduino and embedded programming
- Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
- Amateur radio operations
These workshops are intended to teach, not test, so they’re a great place to start if you’re new to any of these topics before you’re expected to master them in your future courses.
mentorship & support
Every new member is supported by experienced students who can help answer questions, explain project documentation, and guide you through your first tasks. Our goal is to make joining MANTIS approachable and enjoyable, regardless of your background or previous experience.
You’ll never be expected to know everything on your first day.
beyond engineering
Being part of MANTIS isn’t just about building a satellite; it’s about joining a community.
Members regularly collaborate across disciplines, attend team meetings, participate in outreach events, and celebrate project milestones together. Whether you’re troubleshooting hardware in the lab, presenting the project at recruitment events, or simply spending time with teammates, you’ll become part of a welcoming group united by a shared passion for space exploration.
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