Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen, who captivated the world when he flew around the moon alongside three American crewmates during the Artemis II mission in April, said Monday that he is stepping back from a full-time astronaut role in September.
In a social media post, Hansen said the move was “far from a departure,” as he will transition to serve as a reservist member of the Royal Canadian Air Force in a deliberate move “to leave the door open for creative, ongoing ways to support and enable the vital work happening in Canada with respect to space.”
In a statement, the Canadian Space Agency said that Hansen will “pursue new professional opportunities” and praised his “leadership, dedication and professionalism.”
“Through his work with CSA, NASA and other partners, he contributed to a historic new chapter for Canada in space,” the statement reads. “He also inspired Canadians across the country, especially young people, helping them see themselves in the future of exploration.”
Neither Hansen nor the space agency specified what opportunities he may explore after stepping back in September.
