Canada has taken a historic step in space exploration as Jeremy Hansen made his first live Space-to-Earth connection with Canadians while travelling toward the Moon aboard the Artemis II mission.
Speaking from the Orion spacecraft just three days after launch, the Canadian Space Agency(CSA) astronaut answered questions from journalists, offering a direct update on the mission’s progress.
The event was hosted from the headquarters of the Canadian Space Agency in Longueuil, where CSA President Lisa Campbell opened proceedings by congratulating Hansen and his crewmates.
The Artemis II mission, launched on April 1, is the first crewed test flight of the Artemis campaign, a multi-mission initiative aimed at establishing a sustainable human presence on the Moon while testing critical spacecraft systems designed for human spaceflight.
According to Jeremy Hanson, Canada is not only taking part in this historical mission, but actively helping shape the future of space exploration. He noted that, Canada’s leadership is paving the way for upcoming lunar surface operations, deep‑space research, and emerging opportunities within the lunar economy.
“Canada’s representation on Artemis II is the result of decades of bold Canadian innovation, determination and collaboration. It stands as a testament to Canada’s integral place within the team behind the historic return to deep space.”
Jeremy Hanson
Also, Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions said that, Jeremy is making history for Canada, positioning the country as only the second in the world to send an astronaut around the Moon.
“In just days, he will become one of only four humans to have ventured farther into space than ever before. He embodies the expertise, dedication, and excellence that earned Canada a seat on this historic mission, and he will certainly inspire Canadians for generations to come.”
Mélanie Joly
The Artemis II spacecraft further carried out a critical translunar injection burn. This involved igniting the spacecraft’s main engine to send the crew on a four-day journey toward the Moon.
The mission is designed to test the Orion spacecraft’s systems, ensuring they can meet the demands of carrying astronauts safely through deep space and back to Earth.
Hansen is travelling alongside fellow astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch. Together, the crew is expected to cover more than two million kilometres over approximately ten days, marking a significant milestone in human spaceflight as they journey farther from Earth than most astronauts in history.
CSA President, Lisa Campbell, also highlighted the broader impact of Canada’s contributions to space exploration.
“Canada is a key partner in humanity’s return to the Moon. Our leadership in space generates tangible benefits on Earth, from satellites that protect and monitor our land, to innovative companies developing technologies in demand around the world and creating thousands of jobs. As we explore deep space, we will continue bring the very best science, technology and ingenuity, and advancing discovery while strengthening life here on Earth.”
Lisa Campbell
Artemis II Crew Successfully Executes Translunar Injection Burn Toward the Moon
Moreover, the Artemis II crew successfully completed a critical translunar injection (TLI) burn, placing the Orion spacecraft on its trajectory toward the Moon in a key milestone for the mission.
The burn, lasting five minutes and 50 seconds, was executed using Orion’s main engine on the European Service Module, generating up to 6,000 pounds of thrust.
This precise manoeuvre was closely monitored by flight controllers, who tracked engine performance as well as guidance and navigation data to ensure the spacecraft remained accurately aligned for its outbound journey.
With that, Jeremy Hansen is finally on his way to the Moon, fulfilling his dream and that of thousands of Canadians. Jeremy’s voice was heard throughout the manoeuvre as he was liaising with Mission Control providing real-time communication during one of the most technically demanding phases of the mission.
Following the successful burn, Hansen delivered a message on behalf of the crew, stating that they felt “the power of your perseverance during every second of that burn,” adding, “Humanity has once again shown what we are capable of, and it’s your hopes for the future that carry us now on this journey around the Moon.”
Commander Reid Wiseman also reflected on the significance of the moment after the burn was completed, noting that while humans travelled to the Moon between 1968 and 1972, it has been a long time since such missions were undertaken.
He described sending four humans approximately 400,000 kilometres away as a “herculean effort,” highlighting the scale and complexity of the operation.
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