In a groundbreaking leap for Canadian space exploration, astronaut Jeremy Hansen is set to soar beyond the stars in early 2026 as part of NASA's Artemis II mission, making him the first non-American to travel beyond low Earth orbit. Can you imagine? This isn't just a personal triumph; it's a monumental moment for Canada and humanity!

Despite setbacks in the mission timeline, Hansen is diving headfirst into rigorous training and preparation, eager to embrace the journey ahead. He understands all too well that this achievement isn't about one person alone—it's a team effort that encapsulates the spirit of exploration.

Hansen expressed his gratitude, stating, “I feel very fortunate flying to space with just some great people that I respect immensely.” This camaraderie is crucial, especially when working alongside veteran NASA astronauts. The bond they've formed has strengthened with every training session, fostering a genuine connection that transcends the professional.

“This opportunity, too, to prepare for this mission, has just brought us closer. We have more time together. We are all human, and you know. We are always very honest about it, like we have had frictions in the crew. But what’s important is that we want to work through them,” he added, showcasing the human side of this extraordinary mission.

At the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), excitement is palpable. Mathieu Caron, the Director of Life Sciences and Space Medicine at CSA, echoed the collective thrill about Hansen’s upcoming journey. “This first crucial Mission to the moon since the Apollo program—and having Canada on board—is so exciting,” he declared. The team is gearing up as they prepare vital equipment for launch.

As they strategize for the mission, Nathalie Hirsch, a project manager in Operational Space Medicine, notes the challenges they face with limited space. The Orion capsule of Artemis II is compact, measuring only nine cubic meters, akin to a camper van. With space at a premium, every decision counts, especially when it comes to food.

To meet mass constraints while ensuring nutrition, the team has opted against canned foods, which are just too heavy for space travel. Instead, they’re packing lightweight rehydrated meals and thermostability foods—akin to canned food but in a portable metallic pouch.

In a delightful nod to Canadian culture, five Canadian delicacies will be included in their menu: maple syrup, maple cookies, smoked salmon bites, shrimp curry with rice, and a super-seed chia-based cereal. These treats not only satisfy nutritional needs but also bring a taste of home to the stars.

The Artemis II mission, designed for a 10-day orbit around the Moon, is a pivotal step towards lunar exploration—though it won't land on the lunar surface this time. With four astronauts aboard, the Orion spacecraft is on track for a launch by April 2026, and we can’t wait to see what they discover!