5.33°C Vancouver 5.33°C Vancouver
Apr 9, 2026 1:30 PM - Connect Newsroom - Ramandeep Kaur with files from The Canadian Press
Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen spoke with Prime Minister Mark Carney during a brief live connection Wednesday evening, as the Artemis II mission continues its return journey to Earth.
The approximately 10-minute conversation included remarks from Carney, who praised Hansen and the crew for their work during the mission. The discussion also touched on items aboard the spacecraft, including maple syrup, as well as broader topics such as international cooperation and mission risks.
Hansen responded by pointing to Canadian and American flags during the exchange, saying unity is one of the team’s greatest strengths. Industry Minister Mélanie Joly also participated in the call, according to the federal government.
During the conversation, Carney extended an invitation for the Artemis II crew to visit Canada. The call took place while the Orion capsule was in orbit around the Moon and on its way back toward Earth.
According to NASA, the spacecraft is expected to complete a historic splashdown Friday evening in the Pacific Ocean near San Diego. The agency says data collected during the mission will support future plans for longer-duration lunar exploration.
The mission has also transmitted images from space, including views of the Milky Way’s central region, offering further insight into deep-space conditions.
