The Government of Canada paid tribute on July 6, 2026, to the outstanding career of Colonel Jeremy Hansen, astronaut with the Canadian Space Agency (CSA). This recognition comes as Colonel Hansen announced his departure from the Canadian astronaut corps effective September 2026. He will continue to serve his country as a reservist with the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), an institution to which he has devoted more than 32 years of exemplary service.
This tribute marks the end of a remarkable 17-year career within the Canadian space program, culminating in his historic participation in the Artemis II mission — the first crewed lunar mission since the Apollo program more than 50 years ago. Colonel Hansen became the first Canadian and the first non-American to take part in a lunar mission, forever cementing his place in the annals of global space exploration history.
A Lunar Mission for the History Books
From April 1 to 10, 2026, Jeremy Hansen and his crewmates completed a round-trip journey around the Moon aboard the Orion spacecraft. During this extraordinary mission, the crew broke the distance record in space previously held by the Apollo 13 crew. More than a technical achievement, this mission represents the culmination of decades of vision, ingenuity, and strategic investment by Canada in the space sector. The result of decades of collaboration with NASA and other international space agencies, this accomplishment stands as a testament to the excellence of the Canadian space program and its standing as a first-tier global partner.
A Career Dedicated to Canada, Science, and Youth
Selected during the CSA's 2009 astronaut recruitment campaign, Jeremy Hansen first honed his skills in the Royal Canadian Air Force as a CF-18 pilot with the 441 Tactical Fighter Squadron and the 409 Tactical Fighter Squadron. He also served as a Combat Operations Officer with 4 Wing Operations — elite military training that gave him the leadership, discipline, and resilience required for his future career as an astronaut.
Over his 17 years with the CSA, Jeremy Hansen participated in some of the world's most demanding training expeditions. In 2013, he took part in the CAVES expedition, living underground for six days in conditions simulating the isolation of a space mission. In 2014, he immersed himself in the NEEMO 19 underwater expedition, living and working for seven days on the ocean floor in the Aquarius laboratory — an experience that replicated the operational challenges of lunar exploration. In 2017, he became the first Canadian to be entrusted with leading an astronaut class at NASA, supervising candidates from both the United States and Canada — a role reflecting the international trust placed in Canadian expertise.
A Lasting Legacy for Future Generations
Beyond his technical and scientific achievements, Jeremy Hansen has played a crucial role as an inspiration for young Canadians. Throughout his career, he championed careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), firmly believing that every young person can achieve their most ambitious dreams when talent, determination, and opportunity come together. Even after leaving the astronaut corps, Colonel Hansen will remain a passionate ambassador for Canada's future in space, deeply driven by the spirit of discovery and committed to encouraging the next generation to push the boundaries of human knowledge.
Official Tributes
'Colonel Jeremy Hansen made history as the first Canadian to take part in a lunar mission, an achievement that has inspired Canadians of all ages. His extraordinary accomplishments have strengthened Canada's role in space exploration and shown young Canadians what they can achieve when talent, determination, ambition, and opportunity come together. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to pursue careers as researchers and innovators.' – The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Economic Development Canada for the Quebec Regions
'Colonel Jeremy Hansen has inspired Canadians through his remarkable career of service, leadership, and excellence. From his early days as an Air Cadet to his distinguished service in the Royal Canadian Air Force and his achievements as an astronaut, he has inspired a nation and served as Canada's ambassador to the world. I thank Colonel Hansen for his extraordinary service to Canada and for inspiring generations of Canadians to reach for the stars and beyond.' – The Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence
'I want to express my deepest gratitude to the Canadian Armed Forces, the Canadian Space Agency, and the Canadian people for giving me the opportunity to serve over the past 32 years. Those who serve our country and build our future have my deepest admiration. I am more determined than ever to see Canada thrive and to ensure that our leadership in space continues to elevate the Canadian people and the world.' – Colonel Jeremy Hansen, Canadian Space Agency Astronaut
Canada's Aerospace Sector: Careers That Reach New Heights
Jeremy Hansen's exceptional trajectory is a powerful reminder that the Canadian — and especially Quebec — aerospace sector offers some of the most stimulating and meaningful career opportunities available today. From military piloting to space engineering, robotics, embedded systems, complex project management, and scientific research, aerospace careers allow individuals to contribute directly to the greatest technological adventures of our era. Quebec sits at the heart of Canada's aerospace industry, with a dense ecosystem of world-class companies, cutting-edge research centers, and internationally recognized training institutions.
Inspired by the Artemis II mission and Jeremy Hansen's remarkable journey? Explore aerospace job opportunities in Quebec right now at AeroEmploi.ca, the reference employment portal for aerospace professionals in Quebec. Your next great professional adventure starts here!