Prime Minister Mark Carney extended a warm welcome to the Artemis II astronauts during their visit to Ottawa, emphasizing how their recent journey around the moon has been a source of inspiration for the entire nation. Carney expressed gratitude for the astronauts’ teamwork, dedication, courage, and human ingenuity, highlighting that their mission marks just the beginning of remarkable achievements.
The Artemis II crew, comprising Canadian astronauts Jeremy Hansen and his backup Jenni Gibbons, along with NASA astronauts commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover, and mission specialist Christina Koch, are engaging in discussions about their experiences on the mission during their stay in Ottawa and Montreal from Wednesday to Friday.
The astronauts are actively participating in public events, interacting with students, engaging with stakeholders in the Canadian space sector, and conducting a limited number of interviews while in Canada. The Artemis II mission, which saw the crew orbit the moon and return to Earth after departing on April 1, set a new record for the farthest distance traveled from the planet by humans in history.
NASA’s overarching goal is to eventually send humans back to the moon and pave the way for crewed missions to Mars. Despite the risks involved, Carney emphasized that the mission was undertaken to open doors to greater opportunities in space exploration.
Hansen expressed his delight in being welcomed back to Ottawa by the supportive Canadian community after the challenges of space travel. He highlighted the significance of the Artemis II mission as a stepping stone towards future endeavors and presented Carney with a framed maple leaf patch that accompanied them on their journey.
In return, Carney gifted Hansen with the Canadian flag that flew over Parliament’s Peace Tower on the day the crew’s spacecraft splashed down in the ocean. The crew later engaged in a public event at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa, discussing humanity’s return to the moon and fielding questions from children.
During the event, Hansen drew parallels between the crew’s collaborative efforts and global relationships, particularly referencing the Canada-U.S. dynamic. He emphasized the importance of unity and interdependence, noting that despite challenges, genuine intentions prevail.
The crew’s itinerary includes a visit to the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, Que., where they will share insights about their mission with parliamentarians and other stakeholders.