CALGARY, ALBERTA (RFD NEWS) — A historic milestone in space exploration is drawing attention across North America, as NASA’s Artemis II mission begins its journey around the moon—the first crewed flight to travel that far in more than 50 years.
The four-person crew includes Jeremy Hansen, who is making history as the first non-American to travel beyond Earth orbit. Hansen, who grew up on a farm in Ontario, has credited his agricultural roots and early interest in aviation for shaping his path to space. He described the mission as a full-circle moment, recalling childhood memories that first inspired his passion for exploration.
The Artemis II mission is expected to last about 10 days as the crew completes a lunar orbit and tests systems for future missions to the moon’s surface.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to discuss the significance of Hansen’s achievement, particularly for agricultural communities in Canada.
In his interview with RFD NEWS, Haney reflected on what it means to see someone with farm roots reach such a milestone. He also discussed financial pressures facing farmers, including the Canadian government’s decision to maintain a higher interest-free portion of the Advance Payments Program.
Haney addressed what the continued elevation of that program signals about the current farm financial environment and shared insight on how producers may approach using it as a management tool in the year ahead.
From Junior Heifer Shows to Mustang Magic competitions, the 23-day event brings together 4-H and FFA participants, livestock enthusiasts, and families to celebrate North Texas’ rich Western heritage.
