Jeremy Hansen tapped by Carney as special adviser to feds on space

Prime Minister Mark Carney has appointed astronaut Jeremy Hansen as a special adviser on space, as the United States focuses on Canada's efforts to strengthen its partnerships with Europe. Hansen expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating that it provides opportunities to enhance Canada's sovereignty, security, and quality of life while contributing to global stage.

In April, Hansen, along with three other astronauts, participated in the Artemis II mission, which took them further into space than any humans before them. Industry Minister Mélanie Joly said Hansen proposed helping the government develop a new space strategy when he left the Canadian Space Agency. Joly mentioned that she is gathering feedback from Canadian astronauts and aerospace sector professionals to accelerate innovation and strengthen international partnerships.

Defence Minister David McGuinty recently announced a $20 million deal to utilize a space launch complex in southern Newfoundland, building upon a March agreement involving a complex in Nova Scotia. McGuinty emphasized that reliable and independent launch access enables Canada to deploy critical satellites into orbit, even during global uncertainties or disruptions in foreign launch markets. This capability bolsters national interests and ensures continuous operation of space-based systems.

Canada is also expanding its co-operation with European countries in space, as noted by Joly during the SpaceBound 2026 Conference. In contrast to the United States, which has expressed interest in exploring partnerships outside Canada, U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra commented that Canada has decided to "move away" from the American firm SpaceX. Hoekstra highlighted that Canada's decision not to partner with SpaceX reflects their preference for European Space Agency collaborations.

Hoekstra also acknowledged the United States' inclination towards the private sector, explaining that competition drives innovation and excellence. He noted that the F-35 jet remains the best fighter in the world, although he did not directly address Canada's recent decision to pause the purchase of these jets following Trump's trade war threats.

Hoekstra expressed that the U.S. would wait to see Canada's stance on continuing airspace co-operation through NORAD, while also keeping their options open for potential future engagements.