Rock sample from Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland

From July 24 to August 6, 2024, CSA astronaut Jeremy Hansen and his Artemis II crewmates, including Canadian backup Jenni Gibbons and NASA backup Andre Douglas, took part in lunar geology training in Vatnajökull National Park's remote northern region.

With over 30 active volcanic regions, Iceland was specifically chosen for its icy soils resembling those anticipated on the Moon's south pole. This kind of training is crucial in preparing astronauts for missions to the Moon. (Credit: NASA/Robert Markowitz)