In a significant career shift, Colonel Jeremy Hansen, a key figure in Canada’s space exploration efforts, has announced he will be leaving the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) to pursue new professional opportunities as of September. This announcement follows his historic journey around the moon aboard NASA’s Artemis II mission in April 2025. While Hansen steps away from his role at the CSA, he will continue to serve as a reservist with the Royal Canadian Air Force.
A New Chapter for Hansen
In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Hansen expressed his excitement for the future and the new challenges that await him. He described his departure as a “deliberate launch pad” intended to foster ongoing support for Canada’s vital contributions to space exploration. “The future depends on a fierce continuation of Canadian innovation and exploration in space,” he stated, emphasising the importance of technological advancements and economic benefits derived from this sector for both Canada and the global community.
Hansen was part of an elite four-member crew on the Artemis II mission, which also included Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover, and Mission Specialist Christina Koch. This mission marked a milestone, as it was the first time in over 50 years that humans had orbited the moon, taking the team over 406,000 kilometres from Earth. Hansen not only made history as the first non-American to travel beyond low Earth orbit but also as the first astronaut to speak French during the journey.
Acknowledgment from National Leaders
Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed his gratitude for Hansen’s extraordinary contributions to Canada’s space programme. “With Artemis II, Canada became only the second nation on Earth to send an astronaut on a lunar mission,” Carney noted, highlighting Hansen’s exceptional skill and dedication. He acknowledged the legacy carried forth by Hansen, alongside renowned Canadian astronauts such as Marc Garneau, Roberta Bondar, and Chris Hadfield, stating, “Colonel Hansen united millions of Canadians around a single mission and pushed the boundaries of what we believed was possible.”
Hansen, who hails from London, Ontario, was recruited by the CSA in 2009 while serving as a fighter pilot. After completing astronaut candidate training in 2011, he began his work at NASA’s mission control in Houston, facilitating communication with astronauts aboard the International Space Station. Over the years, he has shared insights from his remarkable journey, speaking at various public events and engaging with policymakers in Canada and the United States.
Gratitude and Legacy
In his farewell message, Hansen extended his heartfelt thanks to the Canadian Armed Forces, the CSA, NASA, and international partners. “To all Canadians: thank you for believing in what our country can achieve when we aim high,” he added, encapsulating the spirit of collective achievement that characterises Canada’s approach to space exploration. “The mission continues,” he concluded, hinting at his ongoing commitment to advancing Canadian interests in space.
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman praised Hansen for his representation of the CSA, highlighting his humility and precision during the Artemis II mission. Isaacman remarked, “Jeremy and the Artemis II crew have now passed the torch to Artemis III and the colleagues who will carry the fire of exploration back to the lunar surface,” indicating the continuity of exploration efforts beyond Hansen’s tenure.
Why it Matters
Hansen’s departure from the Canadian Space Agency signifies a pivotal moment not only in his career but also for Canada’s role in global space exploration. His journey around the moon has not only inspired a nation but has also reinforced Canada’s status as a key player in the international space community. As Hansen embarks on new ventures, the legacies of innovation and exploration he championed will continue to resonate, encouraging future generations to dream big and reach for the stars.