In a remarkable display of national pride, Prime Minister Mark Carney extended his heartfelt appreciation to Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen during a live call with the Artemis II crew. Carney expressed his joy at seeing a fellow Canadian in space and hearing the French language spoken amidst the stars. He described the mission as “hugely inspiring” and noted that all Canadians have ample reason to be proud of Hansen’s remarkable achievements and the collaboration with the United States.
A Momentous Occasion for Canada
The call took place on 8 April 2026, from the Canadian Space Agency’s headquarters in Longueuil, Quebec, marking the third and final live communication event organised by the agency. This initiative was expertly coordinated by astronaut Joshua Kutryk. The Prime Minister, speaking from Ottawa, lightened the mood by joking about the possibility of celebrating Hansen’s return with “maple syrup on pancakes,” a quintessentially Canadian treat.
Industry Minister Mélanie Joly was also present and addressed Hansen directly after Carney’s remarks. “I’ve heard from many across the country that not only are we proud, but the news is uplifting. People are following your journey because it brings hope,” she stated, emphasizing the impact of Hansen’s mission on the Canadian public.
Insights from Space
Hansen shared his reflections on the mission, particularly when asked whether it had altered his perspective on humanity. “I launched with the expectation that I would see the proof of humanity’s purpose with my own eyes, and I definitely have,” he affirmed, adding that the experience provided him with a sense of reassurance.
The event opened with a prayer of thanksgiving delivered by Elder Bryan Akwirente Deer from the Mohawk Nation of Kahnawake, setting a respectful tone for the proceedings. Students from across Canada were given the opportunity to engage with the astronauts by submitting questions, some of which were pre-recorded.
When posed with a question about the long-term effects of missions like Artemis II on life on Earth, Hansen remarked, “Space exploration drives innovation. By setting ambitious goals, we concentrate our efforts on achieving outcomes that lead to technologies improving our collective existence.”
Indigenous Wisdom and Inspiration
Reflecting on his Indigenous heritage, Hansen emphasised the importance of learning from elders. “Sit with your elders and ask questions. Every time I’ve listened, I’ve learned amazing things,” he shared. He also highlighted the significance of his mission patch, designed by Henry Guimond from Manitoba’s Sagkeeng First Nation. The patch embodies seven guiding principles: courage, humility, respect, love, honesty, wisdom, and truth.
After successfully completing a six-hour lunar flyby, Hansen and his three American crewmates have now ventured further into space than any humans before them, surpassing the distance record set by Apollo 13 in 1970. This milestone brings them closer to a planned landing near the Moon’s south pole within the next two years. Carney noted that with Artemis II, Canada has become only the second nation to send an astronaut on a lunar mission, highlighting Hansen’s “exceptional skill and dedication.”
The crew is scheduled to return to Earth, splashing down in the Pacific Ocean off the Californian coast on Friday, after capturing stunning images and geological data of the Moon.
Why it Matters
The Artemis II mission represents not just a triumph for space exploration but a pivotal moment for Canadian identity and international collaboration. As Canada plays a significant role in advancing lunar exploration, it fosters a sense of unity and inspiration among Canadians, especially the youth. This mission encapsulates the potential of human ingenuity and the importance of pursuing dreams that reach beyond our planet, encouraging future generations to look up and aspire to new heights.
