The Canadian Space Agency announced on July 6, 2026, that astronaut Colonel Jeremy Hansen will retire from the active astronaut corps this September.
He plans to pursue new professional opportunities while continuing as a Royal Canadian Air Force reservist.
Hansen made history from April 1 to 10, 2026, as a mission specialist aboard NASA's Artemis II mission.
He became the first Canadian and first non-American to travel beyond low Earth orbit and venture around the Moon.
The 50-year-old London, Ontario native completed 32 years of military service and 17 years as an astronaut before making his retirement public.
He shared details about his transition on social media, expressing his ongoing commitment to Canada's space endeavors through his new military role.
Transition to Reservist Role
Hansen emphasized that his transition is designed to maintain continuity and allow ongoing support for Canadian space initiatives.
He wrote, "This is far from a departure. My commitment to seeing Canada thrive remains absolute."
The Royal Canadian Air Force is enabling his transition into a reservist role.
Hansen described it as "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."
Reflecting on the historic mission during an interview with CBC News, Hansen recalled the striking sensory elements of the lunar flight.
He noted that interpersonal connections ultimately defined the voyage for him, saying, "The human experience is what tops it, though."
Hansen expressed gratitude to the Canadian Armed Forces, the CSA, NASA, international partners, and his family.
He also thanked all Canadians for believing in what the country can achieve.
Government and Leadership Tributes
Minister of Industry Mélanie Joly praised Hansen's legacy, stating that his achievements have inspired every generation of Canadian.
She said his extraordinary achievements have advanced Canada's role in space exploration and shown young Canadians what is possible.
Minister of National Defence David J. McGuinty commended Hansen's journey from air cadet to global ambassador.
He thanked Hansen for inspiring generations of Canadians to reach for the stars.
Prime Minister Carney issued a statement honoring Hansen's role in continuing the legacy of pioneering Canadian space explorers.
He noted that with Artemis II, Canada became only the second nation to send an astronaut on a lunar mission.
Following Hansen's departure from full-time service in September, the Canadian Space Agency will maintain three active astronauts: David Saint-Jacques, Joshua Kutryk, and Jenni Gibbons.
