Today, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister responsible for the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), announced two significant assignments for CSA astronauts. Jenni Gibbons will serve as the backup astronaut for the historic Artemis II mission to the Moon, while Joshua Kutryk has been assigned to a six-month mission on the International Space Station launching aboard Starliner-1.

"These assignments are clear proof of the impressive reputation our astronaut corps has. From the International Space Station to the Moon, Jenni Gibbons and Joshua Kutryk are about to write an exciting new chapter of Canada's history in space. Since their recruitment, they have both distinguished themselves repeatedly through their work with NASA and the CSA. Canadian astronauts are modern-day explorers, making them tremendous role models for Canada's future scientists, engineers and explorers."

- The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

"It is an honour to fill this role for my agency and my country to make the most of the opportunity afforded to us by our contributions to the international effort of lunar discovery. Space is for everyone: as Canadians, we recognize its essential nature in our day-to-day life, economic well-being, and commitment to technological advancement. As a part of the Artemis II backup crew, I will work to define and develop the procedures and architecture required for humanity's return to the Moon. I will be a crew test subject for critical operations from launch to splashdown and recovery. I will train as a capsule communicator, ready to act as the link between the ground team and the Artemis missions when in Mission Control. I will train alongside the crew and will be ready to support them in whatever capacity their mission requires. Finally, I will be prepared for future missions critical to Canada's space program. I look forward to bringing Canada with me on this journey."

- Jenni Gibbons, Canadian Space Agency astronaut

"I am grateful to represent Canada on this mission. Space, for me, is about curiosity, adventure, innovation and science. But it's also about collaboration. Collaboration towards future opportunities. Space is about collaborating for a better future. It's about our future; it's about Canadian prosperity. Our country decided decades ago to invest in space because it helps us solve challenges for Canadians, and we are still driven by this purpose today. I'm committed to making the most out of this incredible opportunity for our country."

- Joshua Kutryk, Canadian Space Agency astronaut

• Since the early 1980s, Canada's astronauts have advanced science and technology and inspired Canadians. Nine extraordinary CSA astronauts have flown to space 17 times.

• The Artemis II mission is currently scheduled to launch no earlier than November 2024 while the Starliner-1 mission is targeted for no earlier than the beginning of 2025. Both missions will launch from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

• Artemis II

  • Artemis II is the first crewed mission to the lunar vicinity since 1972. The approximately 10-day mission is designed to test the Orion spacecraft's systems, adapted to meet the needs of a crew on board.
  • Backup astronauts are typically trained in a similar way to the prime crew to ensure they are prepared to take on the same duties and responsibilities with very little advance notice.

• Lunar exploration

  • In March 2023, funding of $1.43 billion was announced as part of the federal budget to further contribute to lunar exploration, including:
    • $1.2 billion over 13 years to develop and contribute a lunar utility vehicle to assist astronauts on the Moon
    • $76.5 million over 8 years, in support of Canadian science and technology demonstrations on the Lunar Gateway

• Starliner-1

  • During his mission, Joshua Kutryk will conduct Canadian and international science experiments and technology demonstrations. He will also support critical operations and maintenance activities.
  • Joshua Kutryk has been working with the Starliner team in Houston since 2021. He has been selected to be the capcom for the ascent and re-entry of the first flight with crew of the CST-100 Starliner vehicle.

• ISS

  • In March 2023, Canada formally confirmed its participation in the ISS through 2030.
  • The ISS is a key stepping stone for future exploration destinations, helping us learn how to live and work in space. It is an important testbed for the demonstration of innovative technologies and cutting-edge experiments.

Associated links

• Biography of Jenni Gibbons
• The Artemis program: humanity's return to the Moon
• Artemis II: Destination Moon
• Information kit – Canada's role in lunar exploration
• Biography of Joshua Kutryk
• Starliner-1 mission
• The Atlas V rocket and the CST-100 Starliner spacecraft
• The International Space Station

Canadian Space Agency
Media Relations Office
Telephone: 450-926-4370
Email: asc.medias-media.csa@asc-csa.gc.ca 
Website: www.asc-csa.gc.ca
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