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Ontario seeks public input on new northwest power plan

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Ontario’s electricity planner invites residents in northwestern Ontario to help shape a new regional power plan to meet rising energy demand.

Ontario Seeks Public Input on New Northwest Power Plan

Provincial call for participation

The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO), Ontario’s provincial electricity planner, has launched a public engagement process to shape a new regional power plan for northwestern Ontario. The move aims to prepare the grid for rising demand driven by population growth and mining projects.

Rising demand projections

A recent IESO forecast suggests electricity demand north of Dryden could more than double by 2050, with even greater increases possible under high-growth scenarios. To address these pressures, IESO recommends new transmission lines to support expanding communities and industrial operations.

Infrastructure proposals

Beverly Nollert, IESO’s director of transmission planning, said the agency has identified several key transmission needs, including new lines connecting Sudbury, Barrie, Timmins, Wawa, and extending north of Dryden to Red Lake. She emphasized that these investments are vital to ensure a reliable supply of power for both residents and industry.

Importance for local growth

According to Nollert, reliable transmission infrastructure enables communities to expand and attracts industrial projects such as mining. “It allows industries to locate within the northwest and contributes to economic development opportunities across the region,” she said.

Community engagement process

The IESO has begun an 18-month consultation, inviting feedback from Indigenous communities, municipalities, developers, and consumers. The goal is to reflect local priorities in technical planning and to gather community input before final recommendations are adopted.

Mining sector concerns

Earlier this year, the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association’s (NOMA) Northwest Energy Task Force warned that electricity shortfalls could threaten the region’s mining boom. With 41 major exploration projects underway—37 aiming to be operational by 2033—the task force estimated the region will need about 250 megawatts of new generation capacity.

Regional power requirements

NOMA’s findings highlighted specific needs: 175 megawatts for mines in the Greenstone, Beardmore, Lake Nipigon, and Ring of Fire areas; 57 megawatts along the North Shore of Lake Superior; 123 megawatts for Ear Falls and Red Lake; and 120 megawatts for Thunder Bay. Local leaders stress that meeting these targets will be critical to sustaining economic growth.

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Conestoga staff strike enters 2nd week as mediation looms

Ontario college support staff strike hits two weeks; mediator set to join talks Friday after employer calls union demands unreasonable.

Conestoga Strike Enters Second Week Amid Mediation Talks

Picket Lines Continue Across Ontario

More than 10,000 full-time college support staff, including over 700 at Conestoga College, have been on strike since Sept. 11. The Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) says the walkout aims to secure better wages, benefits, and job security.

Employer Pushes Back on Union Demands

The College Employer Council (CEC), representing Ontario’s 24 public colleges, has dismissed the union’s proposals as “unreasonable” and “impossible.” Graham Lloyd, CEC CEO, said Monday that mediation may be the only way forward, given the scope of OPSEU’s demands.

Mediation Set for Friday

Despite no formal request from OPSEU, the CEC confirmed Wednesday it will attend government-led mediation later this week. The employer expressed hope that a fair settlement could balance employee needs with the long-term sustainability of the college system.

Disruption Felt on Campuses

While classes remain open, Conestoga College acknowledged service disruptions. Child-care centres at the Doon campus and Driftwood Park facility are closed, and some labs and student services have been paused. The college said contingency plans include reassigning non-striking employees and adjusting workloads to ensure safety.

Union Defends Support Staff Roles

Local union leaders argue support staff form the backbone of campus operations. Vikki Poirier, president of OPSEU Local 238, called Lloyd’s remarks about “simple tasks” degrading, stressing that staff responsibilities extend far beyond minor duties. Faculty representatives also voiced concerns over safety, noting that technicians’ absence may put students at risk.

Key Points of Contention

The CEC outlined four union demands it considers unreasonable:

  • A three-year freeze on college mergers or closures

  • A three-year guarantee of no staff reductions

  • A ban on contracting out services such as snow removal

  • Restrictions on managers or faculty performing basic tasks

Union negotiators rejected this characterization, accusing the CEC of focusing on public relations instead of bargaining.

Students Caught in the Middle

The strike has left students navigating disruptions in labs, technical environments, and child-care services. Faculty and union leaders say the work stoppage underlines the essential role support staff play in student learning. Conestoga’s administration maintains safety remains a top priority while awaiting resolution at the mediation table.

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Rihanna and A$AP Rocky Welcome Baby Girl Rocki

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky announce birth of daughter Rocki Irish Mayers, their third child, in an Instagram post celebrating family joy.

Birth Announcement Shared Online

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky have welcomed their third child, a daughter named Rocki Irish Mayers. The singer revealed the news Wednesday on Instagram, posting a photo of herself with the newborn alongside an image of baby shoes. The caption featured Rocki’s name, her birth date — September 13 — and a ribbon emoji.

Unveiled During a Glamorous Event

The pregnancy first came to light at the Met Gala in May, where Rihanna appeared in a dramatic pinstripe outfit with her baby bump on display. Rocky, serving as a co-chair of the New York fashion event, told reporters the couple was excited to finally share the news publicly.

Growing Family Tradition

Rocki joins two older brothers — RZA, born in May 2022, and Riot Rose, born in 2023. The couple’s choice of another “R” name continues a pattern fans have come to expect. Rihanna and Rocky first confirmed their relationship in 2020, and since then, each new child has been introduced in memorable fashion moments.

Arrival Amid Legal Headlines

The baby’s birth follows a pivotal moment for Rocky, who was acquitted of firearms charges in Los Angeles earlier this year. Rihanna was present throughout the trial and celebrated with him in court when the verdict was read, a moment that underscored their close family bond.

Stars Beyond Music

Rihanna, 37, is a nine-time Grammy winner with 14 Billboard No. 1 singles and global success through her Fenty Beauty brand. She has also acted in major films, including Ocean’s Eight. Rocky, 36, rose to fame with the A$AP Mob collective and earned Grammy nominations with his music. He has recently expanded his career into acting, including a role in Spike Lee’s Highest 2 Lowest.

What Comes Next

For Canadian fans and global audiences alike, Rihanna and Rocky’s family news reflects a balance of public stardom and private joy. With Rocki’s arrival, the couple has cemented themselves as one of entertainment’s most closely watched families, blending high-profile artistry with personal milestones.

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Disney+ to Raise Prices Again Amid Kimmel Backlash

Disney+ raises U.S. and possibly Canadian subscription prices next month, fueling backlash tied to Jimmy Kimmel’s removal and free-speech concerns.

Streaming Rates Climb Again

Disney’s flagship streaming service, Disney+, will see a new round of price increases beginning October 21, 2025, as the company seeks higher digital revenues following years of losses.

  • The ad-supported tier in the U.S. rises by US$2 to US$11.99/month

  • The ad-free premium plan goes up US$3 to US$18.99/month

  • Annual premium subscriptions jump by US$30 to US$189.99

  • Bundles combining Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ will likewise be adjusted upward.

Though Disney has not formally confirmed Canadian pricing changes, a subscriber email reviewed by CBC News suggests that a Canadian premium subscription could rise from CAD 119.99 to CAD 159.99 starting October 28.

Disney says the extra revenue will support more original shows and higher-quality content.

Price Hikes Come at a Tense Moment

This marks the fourth consecutive year Disney has raised its streaming subscription costs since Disney+ launched in November 2019.

The timing is especially sensitive: last week, Disney removed Jimmy Kimmel Live! from broadcast, citing backlash over a controversial monologue.
That decision sparked protests at Disney’s headquarters, calls for boycotts of Disney+ and Hulu, and intense media scrutiny over censorship and corporate influence.
Amid mounting pressure, the show was reinstated on September 23.

While Disney maintains the price hikes were planned well before the Kimmel controversy, critics argue the move may dampen subscriber sentiment and intensify backlash.

Impact on Canadian Subscribers

For Canadian users, pricing uncertainty persists. Disney’s official Canadian pricing page has not been updated to reflect the reported hike.

If Canadian subscribers face the proposed increase to CAD 159.99 for premium, it would represent a steep jump. Whether other tiers or bundles in Canada will be affected remains unconfirmed.

Disney has not responded to media inquiries in Canada requesting clarification on the scope of increases north of the border.

Business Strategy & Risks

Disney’s broader goal is to shift its streaming arm from loss-making to growth driver—price increases are part of that strategy.
In 2024, the streaming segment achieved profitability for the first time, giving Disney room to lean harder into monetization.

However, the combination of price hikes and public relations strain could accelerate cancellations. Consumer backlash over the Kimmel suspension already triggered cancellation campaigns and social media momentum.
Analysts warn that subscription demand may prove more fragile than Disney anticipates, especially if rivals seize the opportunity.

What Lies Ahead

  • Effective dates: U.S. changes take effect October 21; Canadian changes (if implemented) appear to begin October 28.

  • Subscriber reaction: Watch for churn rates, social media backlash, and competitor offers.

  • Regulatory and public scrutiny: The Kimmel incident has already drawn the attention of media watchdogs, investor groups, and free speech advocates.

  • Canadian clarification: Disney’s Canadian unit will likely issue an official statement or updated pricing list ahead of any change.

For Canadian consumers and investors, the mix of streaming price inflation and media controversy marks a pivotal moment for Disney’s digital strategy—one where subscriber sentiment and public perception may carry as much weight as quarterly results.

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Audit Flags $34M in Questionable FSIN Expenses

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A forensic audit urges FSIN to review spending policies after $34M in questionable transactions flagged, including COVID-19 funds.

Audit Recommends FSIN Review After $34M in Questionable Spending

Findings Posted Online

Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) released a summary report Wednesday detailing the results of a forensic audit into the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN). The review, conducted by consulting firm KPMG, identified $34 million in questionable transactions, prompting calls for the FSIN to overhaul its financial and governance policies.

Why the Audit Was Ordered

The audit followed allegations of financial mismanagement and a lack of transparency. ISC commissioned KPMG last year to investigate FSIN’s books. The summary report, now public, includes eight recommendations for strengthening procurement, hiring, accounting, capital asset management, and expense approvals.

COVID-19 Funds Under Scrutiny

A major focus of the audit was $30 million in COVID-19 relief funding FSIN received between April 2020 and March 2023. Of the $26.5 million examined, auditors classified $23.5 million as questionable. The report recommended stricter documentation of expenditures, detailed planning from funding recipients, and clearer reporting to ensure accountability.

Administration and Employment Concerns

The audit questioned $8 million in administration fees and internal charges, including more than $5.2 million directed to the offices of FSIN’s chief and vice chiefs—costs not allowed under existing policies. Auditors also flagged $246,524 in payments to a former employee, citing conflicts between their contract work, employment responsibilities, and severance package.

Fleet Vehicle Purchases

The report raised red flags over FSIN’s purchase of new vehicles for its executive team twice in less than two years. Five vehicles bought in October 2023 at a cost of $367,929 lacked supporting mileage records. Nine other vehicles were sold to staff for $88,600, with auditors recommending fair-value assessments or dealership trade-ins in future. Excess fleet charges of nearly $100,000 were also classified as questionable.

Response From Stakeholders

Maple News Wire contacted FSIN leadership for comment but did not receive a response by publication. ISC said in a statement it will act on the findings and consult with appropriate authorities. The FSIN represents 74 First Nations across Saskatchewan, and the audit’s findings are expected to spark debate over transparency and governance in Indigenous funding management.

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Sacred Fire Guides Search for Missing Teen in Edmonton

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Volunteers keep a sacred fire in Edmonton’s Dawson Park as searches for missing teen Samuel Bird continue with growing national support.

Sacred Fire Anchors Search for Missing Indigenous Teen

A community’s response

In Edmonton’s Dawson Park, a volunteer-led command post has become the heart of the search for Samuel Bird, a 14-year-old from Paul First Nation who went missing in west Edmonton on June 1. At the centre burns a sacred fire, tended day and night, symbolizing both hope and resilience.

How the search began

Samuel’s mother, Alanna Bird, began the search alone, scouring downtown streets on a rented scooter, asking strangers if they had seen her son. Over time, word spread, and what began as a solitary mission evolved into an organized effort. The command post was established to track search areas, prepare meals for volunteers, and collect donations.

Why people join

For many volunteers, Samuel’s disappearance is deeply personal. Dominic Bear, who once ran away from home as a teen, said he was moved by Samuel’s youth and his own memories of being missing. Bear now helps lead the command post, ensuring the Bird family is not left searching alone.

Who is involved

Volunteers have arrived from across Canada — Manitoba, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and the Northwest Territories — with daily participation surpassing 100 people. Many are connected through shared experiences of missing and murdered Indigenous relatives, which drives their commitment to continue searching.

Where the search goes

From Edmonton’s river valley to the MacKinnon Ravine, search teams walk forested trails, scan riverbanks, and comb through parks. Signs of community support are visible at the Dawson Park post, where a “Happy Birthday” banner marked Samuel’s 15th birthday this month.

What authorities are doing

Edmonton police issued a missing person alert on July 11 and searched a related residence on Sept. 18. Investigators have conducted interviews and reviewed surveillance footage, but no ground search has been led by police. The Confederacy of Treaty No. 6 First Nations is urging that the case be reclassified as a search and recovery to unlock federal support.

Holding on to hope

As autumn leaves blanket the search areas, challenges mount, but volunteers say they will remain until Samuel is found. “As long as that fire is lit, we’re going to be here,” said Bear. “When we find Samuel, we can put him to rest and give closure to his family.”

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Businesses Targeted Amid B.C. Ostrich Cull Backlash

RCMP probe threats against B.C. businesses linked to ostrich cull as tensions escalate over CFIA’s plan to slaughter 400 birds near Edgewood.

Businesses Targeted Amid B.C. Ostrich Cull Backlash

Rising Tensions in Edgewood

A government-ordered cull of roughly 400 ostriches near Edgewood, B.C., has ignited fierce opposition, drawing protests and sparking harassment of local businesses. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) ordered the cull after detecting avian influenza in the flock late last year.

Businesses Pulled Into the Dispute

Hotels, gas stations, and waste management firms across British Columbia say they have been bombarded with calls, emails, and negative reviews from farm supporters who believe they are assisting the CFIA operation. Nucor Environmental Solutions, a Surrey-based company, reported receiving death threats against employees and their families despite denying involvement in the cull. Clearway Trucks, another targeted firm, said it had “no prior knowledge” its vehicles were used and demanded their return.

Farm Supporters Mobilize Online

Universal Ostrich spokesperson Katie Pasitney has urged supporters on social media to pressure companies suspected of aiding the cull. Posts included contact details of local businesses, leading to coordinated call-in campaigns. However, Pasitney later appealed for restraint after reports surfaced that children of company employees were being threatened. “Threatening anybody is not OK,” she said in a recent video.

RCMP Investigating Threats

Mounties confirmed receiving multiple reports of harassment and escalating threats of violence. A business in the Lower Mainland reported shooting threats and surveillance intimidation. RCMP warned that those inciting or carrying out threats could face criminal charges. “We will take steps to ensure that anyone who unlawfully interferes with or threatens the safety of any person or property may be held accountable,” police said in a Tuesday statement.

CFIA Defends Cull Decision

The CFIA has defended its decision, citing the detection of avian flu as grounds for the mass cull. The agency, supported by police escorts, began preparations on Monday. The B.C. SPCA clarified that it has no authority to intervene in federally mandated disease-control operations.

Community Impact

Edgewood residents say the dispute has disrupted the quiet rural community for months. “There’s been confrontations with locals,” said resident Randy Donselaar, describing heated exchanges between protesters and townspeople. Farm supporters have framed the cull as government overreach, a narrative that has attracted international attention, including commentary from U.S. political figures.

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Nova Scotia Cuts Red Tape With New Business Law

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A New Push to Support Business Growth

Nova Scotia has introduced the Making Business Easier Act, a law designed to streamline approvals, reduce red tape, and modernize government processes for businesses. The Houston government says the legislation will speed up projects, improve efficiency, and strengthen the province’s competitiveness across several sectors.

“Nova Scotia is open for business,” said Service Efficiency Minister Tim Halman, calling the Act a major step toward making the province a national leader in cutting red tape.

Focus on Natural Resources and Rural Jobs

The legislation places special attention on the natural resources sector, including mining and the development of critical minerals. According to Halman, faster approvals will help projects move forward sooner, boosting exports, supply chains, and employment—especially in rural communities.

He emphasized that economic growth does not come at the cost of environmental responsibility. “It doesn’t have to be one or the other, we can and must do both,” Halman said.

Streamlining Permits and Modernizing Processes

The new law updates nearly 150 permits and eliminates eight considered low-risk, such as roadside memorial approvals and foraging licenses for berries or mushrooms. For the first time, all 300 licensing and permit policies were reviewed with the goal of simplifying rules while maintaining protections.

Halman pointed to the lifting of the uranium mining ban and the recent approval of a major gold mining project as examples of progress, but said more work remains.

Support From Business Groups

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) welcomed the move, noting that red tape costs Canadian businesses nearly $18 billion each year. The provincial government estimates the new law will save Nova Scotia businesses around $800,000 annually.

“It’s a great first step,” said Duncan Robertson, CFIB’s director of legislative affairs in Nova Scotia. He added that while improved service standards are promising, the real test will be ensuring accountability if the government fails to meet its targets.

“That’s the big question out of this legislation,” Robertson said. “Hopefully it’s not just a rap on the knuckles but real incentives to ensure timelines are respected.”

The government says the Act is about more than cutting red tape—it’s about modernizing how the province operates and unlocking its full economic potential. Businesses and industry leaders will be watching closely to see how these changes translate into real-world growth.

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Canadians to Receive CPP, OAS, and Veteran Payments This Week

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Federal Support Arrives at a Crucial Time

Canadians feeling the strain of rising living costs will see some relief this week as the government issues key pension payments. Through the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Old Age Security (OAS), and the Veteran Disability Pension, thousands of households will receive much-needed financial support.

With housing costs up 2.6% and grocery prices up 3.5% since last year, according to Statistics Canada, these payments could not be arriving at a better time. Here’s what to know about each program.

Canada Pension Plan (CPP) — September 25

The CPP is a taxable monthly benefit that replaces part of your income after retirement. To qualify, you need at least one valid CPP contribution and must be 60 or older.

Even if you continue working past 60, your CPP can increase if you keep contributing. The payment amount depends on when you retire, how much you earned during your career, and how long you contributed.

  • Average new monthly payment: $899.67

  • Maximum monthly payment: $1,433

  • Next payment date: October 29

Old Age Security (OAS) — September 25

Unlike CPP, the OAS pension does not require work history. Any Canadian aged 65 or older can qualify, provided their annual net income falls under the threshold.

  • Ages 65 to 74: up to $734.95 per month (if income under $148,541)

  • Ages 75 and older: up to $808.45 per month (if income under $154,196)

  • Next payment date: October 29

This universal program ensures that all seniors receive some financial stability, regardless of past employment.

Veteran Disability Pension — September 26

Eligible veterans and RCMP members may qualify for the Veteran Disability Pension, a tax-free benefit that supports well-being after service.

Who can apply?

  • Current or former members of the Canadian Armed Forces

  • Current or former RCMP officers

  • WWII or Korean War veterans, including Merchant Navy and eligible civilians

Applicants must have a diagnosed condition tied to their service. Payments can be taken as a lifetime monthly benefit or as a lump sum for pain and suffering.

  • Monthly range: $69.60 to $1,391.98

  • Next payment date: October 30

What Canadians Should Do Next

If you qualify for any of these programs, check your eligibility and ensure your information with Service Canada is current. With costs still climbing, every bit of support helps.

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Iren Stock Surges 17% After Analyst Upgrades

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A Big Boost for Iren Stock

Iren stock jumped more than 17% on Wednesday, outperforming the broader market and leaving the S&P 500 in the red. The surge came after three Wall Street analysts delivered upbeat notes on the company, fueling strong investor optimism. While the index slipped 0.3%, Iren easily broke through the midweek slump.

Why Analysts Are Bullish

The excitement around Iren started when Arete Research initiated coverage on the Bitcoin mining sector. The firm placed Iren, Riot Platforms, and Cipher Mining on its “buy” list. Iren received a price target of $78 per share, with analysts praising its strategic pivot into the data center business.

Arete highlighted that Iren is self-funding new data center construction while also upgrading its Bitcoin mining hardware. Both moves signal smart positioning for long-term growth and stronger fundamentals.

Price Target Hikes Add Momentum

The bullish sentiment didn’t stop there. Two other analysts dramatically raised their targets:

  • Darren Aftahi of Roth/MKM maintained a buy rating and boosted his target from $35 to $82 per share.

  • Gautam Chhugani of Bernstein SocGen was even more aggressive, lifting his target from $20 to $75 per share while keeping a buy call.

Together, these moves reinforced investor confidence that Iren’s strategy could deliver major returns.

What’s Next for Investors?

Iren’s sharp rise underscores growing belief in its ability to expand beyond mining into high-demand data center services. Still, investors should weigh both the opportunities and risks before chasing the rally.

For now, analysts appear convinced that Iren’s pivot and upgrades put it in a strong position for future growth.

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Huntington’s Disease Breakthrough: First Successful Treatment

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A Historic Medical Breakthrough

For the first time, doctors have successfully treated Huntington’s disease, a cruel genetic condition that destroys brain cells and devastates families. Often described as a mix of dementia, Parkinson’s, and motor neurone disease, Huntington’s has long been untreatable—until now. Researchers say the new therapy slowed the disease by an astonishing 75%, transforming the outlook for patients worldwide.

What the Treatment Achieved

Normally, Huntington’s symptoms worsen so quickly that patients lose years of independence within a decade. However, with this new treatment, a year’s expected decline could now take four years. “This could give patients decades of good-quality life,” explained Prof. Sarah Tabrizi, director of the University College London Huntington’s Disease Centre. She described the results as “spectacular,” admitting the team became emotional when reviewing the data.

How the Therapy Works

The groundbreaking treatment involves a gene therapy delivered during 12 to 18 hours of highly delicate brain surgery. By directly targeting the root cause of Huntington’s, doctors aim to slow or even prevent the damage that typically starts in a patient’s 30s or 40s. Since Huntington’s is usually fatal within 20 years of onset, earlier intervention may one day stop symptoms from appearing at all.

Real-Life Impact on Patients

Though identities remain confidential, results from participants are already changing lives. One patient who had been forced into medical retirement has since returned to work. Others, who were expected to be in wheelchairs, are still walking. These improvements have stunned researchers and brought renewed hope to families long devastated by the disease.

While treatment costs will likely be very high, doctors see this as a turning point. For the first time, patients and their families can imagine a future with real options rather than inevitable decline. The discovery not only reshapes Huntington’s care but also signals what may be possible for other devastating neurological diseases.

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Artemis II and Jeremy Hansen Ready for Moon Mission

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Canada’s Big Leap into Space

The Artemis II mission is set to make history, and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen will play a leading role. Slated for early 2026, this groundbreaking mission will mark humanity’s return to the moon for the first time since Apollo 17 in 1972. For Hansen, it will also be his first time in space, making him the first non-American to travel beyond low Earth orbit.

Why Artemis II Matters

The mission represents much more than a trip around the moon. It highlights international cooperation, scientific exploration, and the drive to expand human presence in space. Hansen says Canadians should feel proud to be part of this effort, noting that the journey is about striving for excellence on a global stage.

Meet the Crew

Hansen joins three experienced NASA astronauts: Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch. Together, they have spent more than two years preparing for this monumental journey. Wiseman, the mission commander, revealed the spacecraft’s name—Integrity—symbolizing the trust and unity needed for such a demanding mission.

Training and Timeline

While NASA has suggested the launch could take place as early as February 2026, the agency has emphasized safety over speed. Wiseman made it clear that the team will only lift off when fully prepared. NASA has also said the mission will happen no later than April 2026, giving the crew the flexibility needed to ensure every system works flawlessly.

Looking Beyond the Horizon

As the Artemis II team prepares to orbit the far side of the moon, they stand at the frontier of human exploration. The mission will serve as a stepping stone toward even more ambitious goals, including a potential lunar landing and, eventually, missions to Mars. For Hansen, this represents a proud moment not just for Canada but for humanity as a whole.

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