Prime Minister Carney met with the Artemis II crew in Ottawa on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 [1], to celebrate their lunar mission [2].

The meeting underscores Canada's strategic role in international space exploration. By hosting the crew, the Canadian government aims to leverage the visibility of the Artemis II mission to inspire a new generation of domestic scientists and engineers.

During the gathering, the Prime Minister and the crew exchanged several commemorative items. Carney presented the astronauts with a commemorative coin and two special flags [1]. The exchange served as a symbolic gesture of national pride following the mission's flight to the far side of the moon [2].

Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen was among the crew members present for the discussion. The group spoke about the future of space travel and the technical achievements of the mission. Hansen said the mission highlighted what Canadians can do "on the world stage" [1].

Carney used the occasion to express gratitude for the crew's efforts and their impact on the public. "Thank you for inspiring us all," Carney said [2].

The event focused on the broader implications of the mission beyond the technical flight data. By emphasizing the inspirational aspect of the journey, the Prime Minister sought to connect the high-tech achievements of the Artemis program with the national identity of Canada as a contributor to global scientific progress [2].

“Thank you for inspiring us all.”

This meeting signals Canada's intention to maintain a high-profile presence in deep-space exploration. By aligning national leadership with the success of the Artemis II mission, Canada is positioning itself as a critical partner in the international effort to return humans to the moon and eventually reach Mars.