NASA's Artemis II crew, including Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen, will meet with Prime Minister Mark Carney during a packed schedule in Ottawa on Wednesday. The meeting highlights Canada's role in the upcoming lunar mission, which aims to send astronauts around the Moon for the first time since 1972.
Artemis II Crew's Ottawa Visit
The four-person crew—commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover, mission specialist Christina Koch, and Canadian mission specialist Jeremy Hansen—arrived in the capital for a series of events. In addition to the meeting with Carney, the astronauts will participate in public engagements and discussions with Canadian space officials.
Canada's Contribution to Artemis
Canada is contributing the Canadarm3 robotic system to the lunar Gateway, a key component of the Artemis program. Hansen's inclusion marks the first time a Canadian astronaut has been assigned to a lunar mission. "This is a historic moment for Canada's space program," said a spokesperson for the Canadian Space Agency.
The Artemis II mission, currently scheduled for late 2026, will test the Orion spacecraft's systems with a crew aboard, paving the way for a future lunar landing. The Ottawa visit underscores the strong partnership between NASA and the Canadian Space Agency.
Prime Minister Carney, who has prioritized science and technology investment, is expected to reaffirm Canada's commitment to space exploration during the meeting. The crew's itinerary also includes a visit to a local school to inspire students in STEM fields.
