A local connection in Southport is reaching beyond Earth\u2019s orbit as Canadian Space Agency astronaut Col. Jeremy Hansen takes part in NASA\u2019s Artemis II mission, with ties to Southport Aerospace Centre near Portage la Prairie underscoring the region\u2019s role in shaping world-class aircrew.<\/p>\n
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NASA\u2019s Artemis II mission successfully launched on April 1, 2026, at 6:35 p.m. EDT from Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The historic crewed lunar flyby marks the first time humans have travelled beyond low Earth orbit since 1972, and the mission is currently underway with a planned duration of approximately 10 days.<\/p>\n
With the crew at SkyAlyne in Southport, Supplied Photo\/SkyAlyne<\/p>\n
Hansen\u2019s journey is traced from training bases in Southport and Moose Jaw to his role as one of four astronauts aboard Artemis II.<\/p>\n
\u201cJeremy\u2019s journey from the training bases of Southport and Moose Jaw to the Artemis II mission underscores the importance of Canada\u2019s military aircrew training, not only for national defence, but for Canada\u2019s continued leadership and contribution on the global stage,\u201d says SkyAlyne.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The message also points to the inspirational impact of Hansen\u2019s path for current trainees in Manitoba and Saskatchewan.<\/p>\n
\u201cJeremy\u2019s journey is also a poignant reminder for other students at Southport and Moose Jaw: even the sky isn\u2019t the limit.\u201d<\/p>\n
Hansen, a colonel in the Royal Canadian Air Force, was selected by the Canadian Space Agency in 2009 and made history in 2023 when he was named to the Artemis II crew, becoming the first Canadian astronaut assigned to a mission beyond low Earth orbit.<\/p>\n
As the mission continues, SkyAlyne expressed support for Hansen and his fellow crew members.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs Artemis II prepares for launch, SkyAlyne is proud to wish Col. Jeremy Hansen and his crewmates a safe and successful mission. Beginning at home in Canada, his story reflects the very best of the Royal Canadian Air Force and the training systems that support it.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cBlue skies and tailwinds, Jeremy \u2014 Sic Itur Ad Astra. We can\u2019t wait to see you with your astronaut wings!\u201d<\/p>\n
Hansen\u2019s journey from Canadian training facilities to deep space continues to resonate locally, with Southport Aerospace Centre serving as an early stepping stone in a career now making history on the global stage.<\/p>\n
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