Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen is on the verge of making history as part of the upcoming Artemis II mission. The mission aims to take Hansen and his fellow crew members, including NASA astronauts Victor Glover, Reid Wiseman, and Christina Koch, on a journey around the far side of the moon, venturing deeper into space than any human has gone before. Over a span of 10 days, the team will conduct scientific experiments to push the boundaries of their spacecraft and their own physical endurance, with the hope that the data collected will aid in preparations for future lunar and deep space missions.
In an interview with Bob McDonald from Quirks & Quarks, Hansen shared his thoughts on the imminent launch. He expressed a mix of emotions, alternating between the realization that the mission is drawing near and the recognition of the work that still lies ahead. Drawing from his experience as a former jet fighter pilot, Hansen emphasized the importance of aviation training in preparing for the inherent risks of space travel. He highlighted the significance of managing real risks and the dedication to perfecting skills through rigorous simulator sessions.
The Artemis II mission is distinct in its approach, combining elements of the Apollo 7 and Apollo 8 missions into a single voyage. Hansen explained that the crew will undergo testing of life-support systems and manual controls in Earth’s orbit before proceeding to lunar orbit. Unlike Apollo 8, they will not land on the moon but will instead follow a free-return trajectory, circling the moon before heading back to Earth.
During the mission, Hansen anticipates capturing unique views of both the Earth and the moon simultaneously. He underscored the potential for groundbreaking scientific observations that could provide valuable insights, emphasizing the role of human observation in complementing data from orbiting satellites. Additionally, Hansen discussed the AVATAR experiment, where crew members will donate blood samples to study the effects of radiation on living cells replicated on microchips during the mission.
Reflecting on the significance of being the first Canadian to journey to the moon, Hansen expressed pride in representing his country’s achievements in space exploration. He commended Canada’s pioneering efforts in satellite communication and space robotics, acknowledging the bold vision and courage of those who paved the way for the country’s advancements in space technology.
As he prepares for the launch, Hansen anticipates a mix of excitement and nerves, emphasizing the thrill of the upcoming mission. He described the electric atmosphere of launch day, with the rocket poised for liftoff, filled with anticipation and the realization that the momentous journey is about to begin. Hansen’s enthusiasm for the mission and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration reflect his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and inspiring future generations.
