Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen to leave full-time CSA role after Artemis II flight
Jeremy Hansen announced he will transition from his full-time position at the Canadian Space Agency to a new role that keeps him involved in Canada’s space efforts, while remaining a reservist in the Royal Canadian Air Force.
Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen said on Monday that he will step down from his full-time position with the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) and move into a new role designed to support the country’s space activities. In an Instagram post, Hansen described the change as a “deliberate launchpad” that will keep the door open for ongoing contributions to Canada’s space program. He also confirmed he will continue serving as a reservist with the Royal Canadian Air Force.
"To the Canadian Armed Forces, the CSA, NASA, our international partners, and my family: thank you. And to all Canadians: thank you for believing in what our country can achieve when we aim high. The mission continues," Hansen wrote.
Hansen, 50, has served 32 years in the Royal Canadian Air Force and 17 years as a CSA astronaut. His career includes participation in the CAVES underground training program in 2013, the NEEMO 19 underwater mission in 2014, and leading a NASA astronaut class in 2017. In April, he flew on NASA’s Artemis II mission, the first crewed lunar mission in more than five decades, which set several records, including being the first crew to travel beyond low Earth orbit and to view the Moon’s far side directly.
Canada’s minister of national defence, David J. McGuinty, praised Hansen’s service, saying his legacy will inspire future generations in science and innovation.