“Today, Canadian Space Agency astronaut Colonel Jeremy Hansen makes history as the first Canadian to venture to the Moon.

With Artemis II, Canada becomes only the second nation on Earth to send an astronaut on a lunar mission. This remarkable achievement is a testament to Colonel Hansen’s exceptional skill, and to the decades of discipline, dedication, and perseverance that brought him to this moment. It is also a testament to Canada and our world-class science, our cutting-edge technology, and our remarkable astronauts.

This moment reminds us of what Canada has always been: a nation of explorers, builders, and innovators. Colonel Hansen carries forward the legacy of those who came before him – Marc Garneau, Roberta Bondar, Chris Hadfield – and the dreams of every young Canadian watching today’s launch.

On behalf of the Government of Canada, I wish Colonel Hansen and NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch a safe and successful mission.”