Astronaut Jeremy Hansen opens Canadian National Exhibition

Astronaut Jeremy Hansen opened the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) in Toronto on Friday, marking the start of the annual fair's activities. Hansen, a retired Canadian Space Agency astronaut, spoke about his transformative experiences in space and his plans to support Canada’s growing space sector following his retirement. His remarks came during a visit to the CNE’s space-themed exhibits, which included photographs from the Artemis II mission, the first human lunar flyby since 1972. Hansen, who became the first Canadian to reach the moon and the first non-American to travel beyond low Earth orbit, was in Toronto to officially open the CNE. He described the experience of viewing Earth from space as life-changing, emphasizing the beauty and fragility of the planet. During his speech, he highlighted the importance of inspiring the next generation to engage with science and technology, calling for them to become the workforce of the future. He noted that Canada’s space industry continues to expand, contributing significantly to the national economy. Three months after returning from the Artemis II mission, Hansen announced his retirement from the Canadian astronaut program. Despite this, he expressed enthusiasm about continuing to share his space experiences with the public. He mentioned that he would focus on engaging with audiences through talks and discussions, while exploring ways to contribute further to Canada’s space industry. Although he did not specify his post-retirement plans, he emphasized his commitment to promoting space exploration and its benefits for the country. Hansen’s journey to the moon was part of the Artemis II mission, which saw him and his three American crewmates travel farther into space than any previous astronauts. They circumnavigated the far side of the moon, witnessing areas that had never been seen by humans before. From the spacecraft, he observed Canada and Hudson’s Bay, describing the view as extraordinary. These moments, he said, deepened his appreciation for humanity and reinforced his belief in the potential of space exploration. Canada has played a crucial role in global space efforts, contributing technologies such as the Canadarm on the International Space Station and essential components for the James Webb Space Telescope. In 2024, the federal government estimated that the space sector contributed over $3.8 billion to the national economy. Hansen acknowledged these achievements, expressing pride in Canada’s contributions to space exploration and its ongoing growth. During his appearance at the CNE, Hansen also shared personal reflections on his time in space. He described the views from the spacecraft as unforgettable, noting that they left a lasting impression on him. He emphasized the need for continued investment in space research and education, believing that Canada is well-positioned to lead in this field. His comments underscored the significance of the CNE as a platform for showcasing scientific advancements and inspiring public interest in space exploration.