Canadian Space Agency’s first space to Earth video call with Colonel Jeremy Hansen

Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen made history today as he connected with Earth from deep space during the Artemis II mission. This marks a significant milestone for the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) and showcases Canada's growing presence in the field of space exploration. Hansen, a former fighter pilot and current CSA astronaut, is part of the Artemis II mission, which aims to send humans back to the Moon by 2024. This mission is a joint effort between NASA and its international partners, including the CSA. The connection between Hansen and Earth was made through a live video call, where he spoke to a group of students and educators at the CSA headquarters in Saint-Hubert, Quebec. The students were able to ask Hansen questions about his experience in space and his role in the Artemis II mission. "It's an incredible feeling to be able to connect with Earth from deep space," said Hansen during the call. "This is a testament to the advancements in technology and the hard work of the entire team at CSA and NASA." Hansen's connection with Earth is not only a first for the CSA, but also a first for Canada. This achievement highlights Canada's growing role in space exploration and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of human knowledge. The CSA has been a key partner in the Artemis program, providing expertise and technology to support NASA's efforts. This includes the development of the Canadarm3, a robotic arm that will be used to build and maintain the Lunar Gateway, a space station that will orbit the Moon and serve as a staging point for future missions to Mars. "Today's milestone is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our astronauts, engineers, and scientists at the CSA," said Lisa Campbell, President of the CSA. "We are proud to be a part of the Artemis program and to contribute to the future of space exploration." Hansen's connection with Earth also serves as an inspiration to the next generation of Canadian astronauts and scientists. The live video call allowed students to see firsthand the possibilities of a career in space and the importance of collaboration and innovation in achieving great feats. "This is a dream come true for me," said 12-year-old student Emily, who had the opportunity to ask Hansen a question during the call. "I have always been fascinated by space and to be able to talk to an astronaut in real-time is just amazing." The CSA has been actively promoting STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) education and encouraging young Canadians to pursue careers in these fields. Hansen's connection with Earth serves as a reminder of the endless possibilities that await those who are passionate about space exploration. As the Artemis II mission continues, Hansen and his fellow astronauts will conduct a series of tests and experiments to prepare for future missions to the Moon and beyond. This includes testing new technologies and studying the effects of long-term space travel on the human body. The CSA's involvement in the Artemis program not only showcases Canada's expertise in space technology but also strengthens international partnerships and promotes global cooperation in the pursuit of scientific advancement. Hansen's connection with Earth today is a proud moment for all Canadians and a reminder of our country's contributions to the world of space exploration. As we look towards the future, we can only imagine the possibilities that lie ahead and the role that Canada will play in shaping the future of space travel. In the words of Hansen, "The sky is not the limit, it's just the beginning." And with each new achievement, Canada's presence in space will continue to grow, inspiring future generations to reach for the stars.