Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen steps away from active duty after historic moon flight

Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen announced Monday that he is stepping down from his full-time role as an astronaut, months after flying around the moon on NASA's Artemis II mission, according to NBC News.

NBC NewsArtemis II astronaut Jeremy Hansen stepping down from full-time role

Hansen, a colonel in the Royal Canadian Air Force, will pursue new professional opportunities starting September 2026 while continuing to serve as a Reservist, the Government of Canada reported. The Canadian Space Agency astronaut was a member of the historic Artemis II crew that successfully voyaged around the moon earlier this year, Phys noted.

PhysCanadian Artemis II crew member to retire from space agency

"The Government of Canada is recognizing Canadian Space Agency astronaut Colonel Jeremy Hansen for his outstanding contributions to Canada's space program, particularly through the historic Artemis II mission."

canada.caCanada honors CSA astronaut Jeremy Hansen for contributions to space program and Artemis II mission

That recognition comes as Hansen transitions to a new phase, with space.com reporting that he will step back from active astronaut service in September for a new role. His departure marks the end of an era for a figure who played a key part in humanity's return to lunar orbit, a milestone that NBC News described as a "historic" achievement.

space.comArtemis 2's Jeremy Hansen stepping down from active astronaut duty after epic moon mission

While Hansen's exact next steps have not been detailed, his continued service as a Reservist ensures that his experience will not be entirely lost to Canada's aerospace community. The Artemis II mission itself stands as a testament to international collaboration, with Hansen representing Canada alongside NASA astronauts.