Astronaut Jeremy Hansen, who completed a mission around the moon in April, has decided to retire from the Canadian Space Agency’s astronaut corps. The agency made the announcement of Hansen’s retirement in a press release this afternoon.
In recognition of his remarkable contributions to Canada’s space program, Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut Colonel Jeremy Hansen will be pursuing new professional opportunities starting in September 2026. Despite his retirement, he will continue serving as a reservist with the Royal Canadian Air Force.
Hansen, along with NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, participated in the Artemis II mission where they orbited the moon in April. Hansen personally shared the news of his retirement from CSA on social media.
With 32 years of military service and 17 years as a Canadian Space Agency astronaut, including the privilege of flying around the Moon on Artemis II, Hansen expressed his transition from full-time CSA role. He emphasized that his commitment to supporting Canada’s progress remains unwavering. The Royal Canadian Air Force will facilitate his shift to a Reservist position to ensure continuity and enable further contributions to Canada’s space initiatives.
Recruited in 2009 alongside David Saint-Jacques, Hansen completed astronaut candidate training in 2011. He has been actively involved in NASA mission control and underwent extensive training leading up to the Artemis II mission.
Reflecting on his experiences during the Artemis II mission, Hansen highlighted the exciting visuals and physical sensations of space travel but emphasized that the human experience was the most rewarding aspect.
Minister of Industry and Minister Responsible for Economic Development for Quebec Regions, Melanie Joly, praised Hansen’s historic achievement as the first Canadian to participate in a lunar mission. She commended his exceptional accomplishments for advancing Canada’s role in space exploration and inspiring future generations of Canadians.
Following Hansen’s retirement in September, the Canadian Space Agency will have three active astronauts: David Saint-Jacques, Joshua Kutryk, and Jenni Gibbons. Gibbons, who played a crucial role at mission control during the Artemis II mission, continues to contribute significantly to NASA. Kutryk is scheduled to join Crew-13 on a mission to the International Space Station in September.
In his retirement message, Hansen expressed gratitude to the Canadian Armed Forces, CSA, NASA, international partners, and his family for their support. He also thanked all Canadians for believing in the potential of the country to achieve great heights in space exploration.