Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen leaves full time CSA role

Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen, who made history as the first person from his country to travel to the moon, is stepping back from his full-time role with the Canadian Space Agency. Officials announced the move on Monday, July 6, 2026, stating Hansen will pursue new professional opportunities beginning in September while transitioning to a reservist role with the Royal Canadian Air Force.

Hansen, 50, was a member of NASA's Artemis II mission, which successfully completed a crewed voyage around the moon in April. The mission, carrying Hansen and American astronauts Reid Wiseman, Christina Koch, and Victor Glover, was the first human journey to lunar vicinity in over 50 years and set a record for the farthest humans have ever traveled from Earth.

In a social media statement, Hansen described the decision as a "significant next step" following 32 years of military service and 17 years as an astronaut, culminating in the "incredible privilege" of the lunar flight. He said his new reservist status is a deliberate move to leave the door open for creative ways to support Canada's space sector. The Canadian Space Agency praised his leadership, dedication, and professionalism, stating...