Brampton, ON - MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. (TSX: MDA), a provider of essential information solutions, announced today that the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) has awarded MDA $13.5 million to continue to develop a meteorological information station as part of the Canadian contribution to a NASA Mars exploration mission called Phoenix. MDA is the prime contractor to build the scientific station and associated instruments that will provide information about the Martian climate and atmosphere, part of the search for water and traces of life on Mars.

"The contribution of this unique Canadian space-based data gathering and information processing technology to the Phoenix mission recognizes Canadian industrial space expertise and positions Canada well in this exciting international Mars expedition," stated Savi Sachdev, Director General of Space Programs for the Canadian Space Agency.

"Our role on the Phoenix Mars mission positions us well to provide our information solutions to other international space exploration missions," added Paul Cooper, General Manager of MDA's Brampton< operation, where the meteorological station will be constructed.

The Phoenix mission is expected to launch in 2007.

MDA has teamed with Optech Incorporated for instrument development, which draws upon both companies' experience and previous offerings. Canadian scientists led by Dr. Diane Michelangeli of York University are actively participating in this program.

About MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. (MDA)

MDA provides advanced information solutions that capture and process vast amounts of data, produce essential information, and improve the decision making and operational performance of business and government organizations worldwide.

Focused on markets and customers with strong repeat business potential, MDA delivers a broad spectrum of earth and space based information solutions, ranging from complex operational systems, to tailored information services, to electronic information products.

MDA employs more than 2,500 people in locations across the United States , United Kingdom , and Canada . The Company trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol TSX:MDA.

Related Websites:
www.mdacorporation.com
www.space.gc.ca
www.optech.on.ca