Canadian Space Agency astronaut Colonel Jeremy Hansen, along with his Artemis II crew, visited the White House on Wednesday to meet with President Donald J. Trump. The meeting highlighted Canada's role in space exploration and showcased the Maple Leaf in the Oval Office.
The Artemis II mission made history by taking humans to the moon for the first time in over 50 years, with Hansen becoming the first Canadian to travel beyond Earth's orbit. During the White House visit, the astronauts were praised by President Trump as “very brave” and “American heroes,” though Hansen's Canadian flag patch was prominently displayed.
“They're very brave,” Trump told reporters. “That was a lot of rocket under them. I never saw anything like that.”
Hansen's participation in the mission has been a source of national pride for Canada, especially amid sometimes tense relations between Canada and the United States. The astronaut's calm and diplomatic demeanor has been seen as a bridge between the two nations.
Earlier, during a space-to-ground call, Trump spoke with Hansen and mentioned hockey legend Wayne Gretzky, saying, “The Great One is very proud of you.” Hansen responded graciously, thanking Trump for American space leadership that brings other countries along.
The Canadian Space Agency also celebrated the milestone, noting that Hansen's conduct has brought honor to Canada. The visit underscored the potential for collaboration between the two countries in science and exploration.
Observers noted that the Canadian flag was visible in the Oval Office, a symbol of the enduring partnership between Canada and the United States. As one commentator put it, “If it means taking diplomacy to the moon and back, hopefully we will see more of this.”
