Canadian Space Agency astronaut Col. Jeremy Hansen will step down from his active role as an astronaut and leave the Canadian Space Agency this September. His transition comes just months after he made history as the first Canadian to fly around the Moon on the Artemis II mission.
After 32 years of military service and 17 years with the space agency, Hansen plans to pursue new opportunities. He will continue to serve as a reservist with the Royal Canadian Air Force. This shift allows him to support Canada’s space sector from a new vantage point. During his time as an astronaut, Hansen led mission training, lived in underwater research habitats, and served as an ambassador for Canada’s future in space. His career to date reached a historic peak in April 2026 when he flew aboard the Orion spacecraft, taking humanity farther from Earth than the Apollo 13 record.
Hansen was selected as an astronaut in 2009 after flying CF-18 fighter jets for the military. The government says he will remain a public ambassador for the space program, helping to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.
Hansen shared his full statement regarding the transition on social media.
“Today, I am sharing a significant next step in my journey. This September, after 32 years of military service and 17 years as a Canadian Space Agency astronaut, culminating in the incredible privilege of flying around the Moon on Artemis II, I will be transitioning from my full-time role at the CSA.
This is far from a departure. My commitment to seeing Canada thrive remains absolute. To ensure continuity in this mission, the Royal Canadian Air Force is enabling my transition into a Reservist role. This unique position is a deliberate launchpad designed to leave the door open for creative, ongoing ways to support and enable the vital work happening in Canada with respect to space, and I’m excited for the new challenges it will bring.
Our future depends on a fierce continuation of Canadian innovation and exploration in space. The technological breakthroughs and economic benefits born from this sector are vital for our country and the world, and I am as determined as ever to push that work forward.
To the Canadian Armed Forces, the CSA, NASA, our international partners, and my family: thank you. And to all Canadians: thank you for believing in what our country can achieve when we aim high.
The mission continues.”
Col. Jeremy Hansen
Editorial Note: I have followed his career since he joined the Canadian Space Agency. I have seen firsthand the professionalism Hansen brings to the agency and the public eye. I expect his transition will not diminish his influence. Instead, his next chapter will likely provide a new way to support Canadian space, allowing his deep experience to benefit the sector long after he leaves his active role.