The Artemis II crew successfully concluded their nine-day mission with a safe recovery on September 24th, according to live coverage on CBC News Network. The recovery involved a helicopter hoist operation from the Orion capsule to the USS John Murtha.

During the broadcast, commentators discussed the significance of the mission, emphasizing the value of human observation alongside data collection. Chris Hatfield, a former astronaut, noted the extensive data and photographs being brought back, while Victor Glover, the pilot, had previously stated his focus was on a successful splashdown and sharing the mission’s findings.

Jeremy Hansen, the Canadian astronaut on the mission, reportedly expressed a particular interest in observing the South Pole of the moon, a potential site for a future lunar base due to the possible presence of water ice. According to the broadcast, Hansen believes the human eye provides a unique contextual understanding that cameras cannot replicate.

The program also featured an interview with three members of the 614 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron in London, Ontario – Captain Travis Buckle, Flight Sergeant Aaron Gonzalez, and Corporal Josue Alvarado. Hansen credited his time as an Air Cadet with instilling discipline, confidence, and providing early aviation training. The cadets expressed pride in Hansen’s achievement and highlighted the program’s role in fostering leadership and ambition. Alvarado shared his own aspiration to become an astronaut, inspired by Hansen’s journey. Buckle emphasized the program’s focus on leadership and teamwork, qualities demonstrated throughout the Artemis II mission.

A NASA news conference is scheduled for 10:30 Eastern Time, as announced during the CBC News Network broadcast.