After more than 50 years, humans are finally heading back toward the Moon—and Canada is along for the ride.
Jeremy Hansen, a Royal Canadian Air Force colonel and CSA astronaut, becomes the first Canadian the first non‑American to ever fly on a lunar mission. He earned his seat thanks in part to Canada’s contribution of Canadarm3, the next‑gen robotic arm for future lunar missions. Watch parties are happening coast to coast to coast, with CSA events in Ottawa, Longueuil, and science centres nationwide.
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This isn’t just a NASA moment—it’s a Canadian one. The Crew Reid Wiseman (Commander, NASA) Victor Glover (Pilot, NASA) Christina Koch (Mission Specialist, NASA) Jeremy Hansen (Mission Specialist, CSA 🇨🇦) Also worth noting: Koch will become the first woman to travel to the Moon Glover will be the first Black astronaut to do so.
What’s the Mission? No landing—this is a 10‑day lunar flyby The crew will travel farther from Earth than any humans in history Testing life‑support, navigation, heat shields, and human systems before future moon landings. Think Apollo 8 vibes, but with modern tech and a global crew.
Will It Launch? Weather is looking good (about 80% go) Today is considered the best shot in the current window Backup dates extend through April 6 if needed… and no—despite the date—this is not an April Fools’ joke.
How to Watch NASA+, YouTube, NASA TV Coverage started this morning with tanking and crew prep CSA is also livestreaming Canadian coverage and reactions.
Tonight, humanity heads back to the Moon for the first time since 1972—and for the first time ever, a Canadian is on board. Artemis II lifts off at 6:24 Eastern, 5:24 OUR time, carrying history, hope, and a whole lot of maple leaf pride.”
