After recently retiring from the Canadian Space Agency, astronaut Jeremy Hansen is preparing to explore new career opportunities this fall, as announced by the Canadian Space Agency on Monday. While Hansen has not disclosed his specific plans yet, he will maintain his role as a reservist with the Royal Canadian Air Force.
Looking back at the post-space careers of some of Canada’s notable astronauts, Marc Garneau, one of the original six Canadian astronauts and the first Canadian in space, transitioned into politics after his space missions. He served as a Liberal Member of Parliament and held positions as the country’s transport minister and foreign affairs minister before his passing at the age of 76 in 2023.
Roberta Bondar, the first Canadian female astronaut and a neurologist, embarked on various endeavors post-astronaut life, including public speaking, research, and photography. Chris Hadfield, known for his spacewalk and multiple spaceflights, retired in 2013 to pursue music, television work, and writing, releasing albums and books.
Julie Payette, who went to space twice and later became Canada’s governor general, resigned from the position in 2021 due to workplace culture issues. Bjarni Tryggvason, another original Canadian astronaut, flew as a payload specialist in 1997 before retiring in 2008. He later participated in a Silver Dart biplane commemoration effort, passing away in 2022 at the age of 76.
These Canadian astronauts have shown that there are diverse paths to follow post-space missions, highlighting the exciting opportunities beyond their time in space exploration.