The First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) recently played host to an event that symbolized a unique fusion of ancient wisdom and futuristic ambition. Astronaut Jeremy Hansen set to make history as the first Canadian to journey to the moon in 2025, engaged with an eager audience in Regina, sharing insights into NASA's Artemis II mission and the broader goals of human space exploration.
Hansen's visit was more than a lecture; it was a bridge between cultures and disciplines, highlighting the Artemis program's objective to return humans to the lunar surface and eventually venture to Mars. However, Hansen emphasized that these monumental achievements are not just technical milestones but efforts to unite humanity under shared, ambitious goals that transcend national boundaries.
In a poignant moment at FNUniv, Hansen unveiled his personal mission patch, which carries deep cultural significance. The patch, designed by Henry Guimond of the Sagkeeng First Nation in Manitoba, incorporates the seven sacred laws—spiritual guidelines many Indigenous peoples revered. Hansen eloquently connected these principles to his own aspirations and responsibilities as he represented Canada and humanity on this monumental journey.
Hansen's preparation for the Artemis II mission includes engaging with Indigenous communities across Canada and learning from elders and knowledge keepers. This experience, according to Hansen, has enriched his perspective, offering profound insights and truths that resonate with his own values and the mission's broader humanitarian objectives.
Among the attendees was fifth grader Darling Beaton, who dreams of the stars just like Hansen. Inspired by Hansen's advice, Beaton reflected on the perseverance needed to achieve such lofty goals, emphasizing the astronaut's message of resilience in the face of challenges.
As a Colonel in the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), Hansen's upcoming mission on Artemis II will see him and a crew of four venture further into space than any human has before, marking the first crewed lunar mission since 1972. This nine-day journey represents a significant step in space exploration and embodies the fusion of diverse knowledge systems and the collective pursuit of understanding our place in the universe.
Hansen's journey—from his engagement with Indigenous communities to the impending lunar mission—underscores the importance of unity, wisdom, and the relentless pursuit of dreams, serving as a beacon of inspiration for future generations and a testament to the boundless potential of humanity when we come together to explore the unknown.