Top Canadian Space Official Anticipates Economic Boost for Companies with Artemis 2 Moon Mission

NASA recently announced the crew of its upcoming Artemis 2 mission, which aims to send four astronauts on a journey around the moon in late 2024. Among the team members is Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen, who will be the first Canadian to venture beyond Earth’s orbit. Canada secured this position on the Artemis 2 mission by virtue of its contributions to NASA’s Artemis program, particularly the development of Canadarm3, a large robotic arm designed to serve the Gateway space station orbiting the moon.

On Sunday, April 2nd, Space.com had an opportunity to speak with François-Philippe Champagne, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, who is the top Canadian government official responsible for space. During the conversation, Champagne, who directly advises Canada’s prime minister, shared his thoughts on the Artemis 2 mission, the broader Artemis program, and Canada’s future role in space exploration.