Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen is set to make history as part of the upcoming Artemis II mission, which aims to send him and his crewmates, including NASA astronauts Victor Glover, Reid Wiseman, and Christina Koch, around the far side of the moon. This mission will push the boundaries of deep space exploration by venturing farther than any human has gone before.
During the 10-day mission, the crew will conduct scientific experiments to test the capabilities of their spacecraft and their own endurance. The data gathered will be crucial for preparing for future lunar missions and beyond. Hansen recently shared insights with host Bob McDonald on the “Quirks & Quarks” show, expressing a mix of emotions as the launch date approaches.
As a former jet fighter pilot, Hansen emphasized the importance of aviation training in preparing for space missions, where managing real risks becomes paramount. The Artemis II mission combines elements of previous Apollo missions, with a focus on testing life-support systems and manual controls in Earth’s orbit before looping around the moon without landing.
Hansen highlighted the unique perspective the crew will have, being able to witness both the Earth and the moon simultaneously from a distance. This opportunity to observe and document the celestial bodies from a new vantage point could lead to significant scientific discoveries.
One notable experiment on the mission is the AVATAR project, where astronauts will donate blood to replicate living cells on specialized chips. By comparing the effects of radiation on the astronauts and the replicated cells, researchers aim to gather valuable data for future space research.
Reflecting on being the first Canadian to journey to the moon, Hansen expressed pride in representing his country’s achievements in space exploration. He commended Canada’s contributions to space technology, from satellite launches to developing groundbreaking robotics like the Canadarm2.
As launch day approaches, Hansen anticipates a mix of excitement and nerves, knowing that the moment of liftoff will mark the culmination of years of preparation and training. The experience of being strapped into the rocket, filled with fuel and ready for launch, will be a blend of exhilaration and contemplation for the historic mission ahead.