Sapphire is a key element of the Canadian Space Surveillance System, and will be a contributing sensor to the US Space Surveillance Network. It is a space-based electrooptical sensor that will provide accurate and timely tracking data to the Canadian Department of National Defence (DND) on space objects at orbit altitudes between 6,000km and 40,000km.

MDA is prime contractor for the Sapphire mission, including launch and the first three years of operation. The spacecraft and associated ground infrastructure will be built by an industrial team led by MDA and is expected to launch in 2010.