Prime Minister Mark Carney has designated Jeremy Hansen as a special adviser on space, coinciding with the United States acknowledging Canada’s shift towards European space partnerships. In a video shared on social media on Tuesday, Hansen expressed his enthusiasm for serving Canada in this capacity, highlighting the opportunities to enhance sovereignty, security, quality of life, and global contributions.
Hansen’s role entails providing advice to Carney and Industry Minister Mélanie Joly. Following the Artemis II mission in April, where Hansen and three other astronauts journeyed around the moon, he proposed a new space strategy upon departing from the Canadian Space Agency. Joly mentioned that discussions with Hansen focused on his continued impact, contributions, and service opportunities.
Feedback from Canadian astronauts and aerospace industry experts is being sought to accelerate innovation and strengthen international partnerships as part of the strategy development process, according to Joly. Details regarding Hansen’s role, including its duration and compensation, were not provided by the offices of Carney and Joly.
On a related note, Defence Minister David McGuinty unveiled a $20-million agreement concerning a space launch complex in southern Newfoundland, building upon a prior agreement involving a complex in Nova Scotia. This initiative aims to ensure reliable and independent access for launching critical satellites into orbit, safeguarding national interests and operational continuity during global uncertainties.
Hansen’s appointment aligns with Canada’s efforts to enhance collaboration with European nations in space. U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra noted at the SpaceBound 2026 Conference that Canada is exploring closer ties with the European Space Agency, signaling a shift away from American firm SpaceX. Hoekstra emphasized the U.S.’s preference for the private sector and highlighted the importance of competition in driving excellence, underscoring ongoing discussions on regulatory challenges in the space domain.
Regarding military cooperation, Hoekstra mentioned the F-35 jet as a top-performing aircraft globally, while acknowledging Canada’s defense reassessment amid trade disputes and sovereignty concerns with the U.S. Washington remains open to continued airspace collaboration through NORAD but is also exploring alternative security arrangements, such as the recent deal with Greenland. Hoekstra emphasized the U.S.’s readiness to collaborate with Canada while affirming a proactive approach in national security matters.