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Jeremy Hansen

CD FRCGS
Hansen wearing an orange uniform
Hansen in 2023
Born
Jeremy Roger Hansen

(1976-01-27) January 27, 1976 (age 50)
Status Active
Alma mater Royal Military College (BSc, MSc)
Awards Canadian Forces' Decoration (2006)
Space career
CSA astronaut
Time in space
5 days, 15 hours, 44 minutes [refresh]
(currently in space)
Selection
Missions Artemis II
Mission insignia
Artemis II patch.png
Military career
Allegiance Canada
Service/branch Royal Canadian Air Force
Years of service 1994–present
Rank Colonel

Jeremy Roger Hansen, born on January 27, 1976, is a Canadian astronaut, a skilled fighter pilot, and a scientist. He was chosen by the Canadian Space Agency in 2009 to become an astronaut, alongside David Saint-Jacques. Before becoming an astronaut, Hansen was a captain in the Royal Canadian Air Force. He flew CF-18 fighter jets. He has since been promoted to the rank of Colonel.

On April 1, 2026, Hansen flew as a crew member on the Artemis II mission. This mission is designed to fly around the Moon. He became the first astronaut from a country other than the United States to travel beyond Earth's close orbit. If the mission continues successfully, he will be the first non-American to travel near the Moon.

Early Life and Education

Growing Up and School

Jeremy Hansen was born in London, Ontario, Canada, on January 27, 1976. He grew up on a farm near Ailsa Craig. Later, his family moved to Ingersoll, Ontario, where he went to high school.

After high school, Hansen attended the Royal Military College of Canada. This is a special school for military officers. In 1999, he earned a degree in space science with top honors. He then continued his studies, getting a master's degree in physics in 2000. His research focused on how to track satellites from far away.

When he was 12 years old, Jeremy joined the Air Cadets. This program helps young people learn about aviation and leadership.

Career

Astronaut Training and Missions

Jeremy Hansen has taken part in unique training programs to prepare for space. In 2013, he trained as a "cavenaut" in ESA CAVES in Sardinia. This training involved exploring caves deep underground with other astronauts. It helped them learn to work together in extreme environments.

In 2014, Hansen also became an "aquanaut." He lived in an underwater laboratory called Aquarius for seven days. This was part of the NEEMO 19 mission. Living underwater helps astronauts practice for long space missions.

Artemis 2 Crew Portrait
This is the official crew photo for the Artemis II mission. From left to right are NASA Astronauts Christina Koch, Victor Glover, Reid Wiseman, and Jeremy Hansen.

On April 3, 2023, a big announcement was made. Jeremy Hansen was chosen to be the first Canadian to travel near the Moon. He is a crew member of the Artemis II mission, which launched on April 1, 2026.

Personal Life

Family Life

Jeremy Hansen is married to Catherine Hansen. They have three children together.

Honours and Awards

Awards and Recognitions

Jeremy Hansen has received many awards for his service and achievements:

  • Canadian Forces' Decoration: This award is for 12 years of service in the military (received in 2006).
  • Canadian Air Force Pilot Wings: He earned his pilot wings in 2002.
  • Clancy Scheldrup Memorial Trophy: Awarded in 2001 for being an outstanding graduate from the Basic Flying Course.
  • Air Cadet League of Canada Award: He was recognized as the top air force graduate from the Royal Military College of Canada in 1999.
  • Fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society (FRCGS): This honor recognizes his contributions to geography and exploration.
  • Gold Medal of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society.
  • Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal: Received in 2012 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II's 60 years on the throne.
  • King Charles III Coronation Medal: Awarded in 2023 for his role in the coronation.
  • Canada's flag bearer for the Coronation of Charles III and Camilla.
  • Calgary Stampede Parade Marshal in 2023.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Jeremy Hansen para niños

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