Hello, everyone!
I’m Canadian Space Agency astronaut
Colonel Jeremy Hansen.
After years of preparation
and training, we’re finally here.
It’s been a privilege to train alongside
my Artemis II crewmates and, of course,
my CSA colleague Jenni Gibbons, who has done
a tremendous job as my backup,
but also in helping define training
and processes for future lunar missions.
What an honour it is to represent
our nation on humanity’s
return to the Moon!
I am truly humbled and grateful
to be a member of this crew.
I have to thank so many people
for this privilege.
I wouldn’t be here
if it wasn’t for the support of my family,
my friends, my colleagues
of the Royal Canadian Air Force,
my Canadian Space Agency family…
and all of you.
Thousands of Canadians
have made this mission possible.
Their work and can-do attitude
has made Canada
a trusted and reliable partner in space.
And we should all be proud of that.
My hope is that Canadians everywhere come
together to watch this mission unfold.
That those who remember the Apollo era
feel that same spark again.
And that young Canadians
see what’s possible when we dream big.
I hope Artemis II gathers
all generations of Canadians,
united by curiosity, pride,
and a shared sense of wonder.
Because when we aim high
and work together, we can achieve
incredible things
– in space, and here on Earth.
I’ll wear the Canadian flag
with deep pride and gratitude,
representing all you on this new era
of space exploration.
Thank you, sincerely.