While this has been a crazy news week, ranging from White House scandals unravelling to rising tensions in the Middle East, we want to focus on something that brought us a bit of hope this week — our return to the moon.
On April 1st, the Artemis II launched from the Kennedy Space Center for a 10-day mission to the moon and back. The crew of four will travel farther into space than any human ever has and are the first humans to have left Earth’s orbit since the 1972 Apollo 17 mission.
Jeremy Hansen is the sole Canadian aboard and the only crew member who has not previously travelled to space, making his interstellar debut on one of the most important space flights in half a century.
“I’ll wear the Canadian flag with deep pride and gratitude, representing all of you on this new era of space exploration. Thank you sincerely,” expressed Hansen in a pre-recorded video that was published on launch day.
Hansen is working alongside fellow mission specialist Christina Koch, commander Reid Wiseman, and pilot Victor Glover.
On April 2nd, the crew themselves also made history as the first Canadian, African-American, and woman to leave Earth’s orbit.
On Monday, the spacecraft is scheduled to make its loop around the moon, marking the first time the far side of the moon will be observed directly with human eyes.
While things may feel bleak here on earth, here at the Calgary Journal newsroom, we are finding hope and inspiration amidst the Artemis II mission. As they continue their historic venture into deep space, we commend them for their bravery in boldly going where no human has gone before
Here are some standout stories from this week:
Teaching without borders: How an Okotoks teacher transformed curiosity into a career of service
By Joaquin Dedicatoria, Alberta teacher leaves a mark on students through international travel.
A peek at Calgary National Music Centre’s new Nelly Furtado exhibit
By Emma Miller and Mia Smith, The display is a tribute to the Canadian Music Hall of Fame’s 2026 inductee
Calgary Aquamums Masters break down stereotypes, proving age truly just a number
By Abby Weidman and Aubree Quapp, An artistic swimming group creates space for older adults to stay active, build friendships and compete at all levels.
Taber, Alta. crowned Hockeyville winner
By The Canadian Press, Southern Alberta community lost its only two ice rinks after a Zamboni explosion, with repairs expected to cost about $11 million
Featured Podcast Listening:
MRU Listening
Triple Threat Podcast
Check out this weekly show hosted by MRU journalism students Zafir Nagji, Noah Wilson and MJ Jorge.
News+Business
The Decibel: Artemis 11: A Canadian heads to the far side of the moon
Madeleine White and science reporter Ivan Semeniuk explore all things Artemis 11 and Jeremy Hansen.
Lifestyle+Culture
Shameless: When a TV show trashes a reputation
This episode explores how the new biopic fascination may be teetering on the edge of some serious ethical lines.
What we are listening to!
Dominican Sisters Open Mic
And sister, you are so good at that…
This is your A&E and newsletter editor, Emma Miller’s, podcast pick of the week.
Photo Gallery:
Below are some Calgary events taking place this week that you may want to check out:
– Spring Babies Festival at Butterfield Acres
When: April 5-19 , 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Butterfield Acres Farm
Cost: Prices Vary
– Calgary Wranglers vs Abbotsford Canucks
When: April 10, 7 p.m.
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome
Cost: Prices Vary
– Spark After Dark Calgary (18+): Science of Sports Night
When: April 10, 6 p.m.
Where: Telus Spark Science Centre
Cost: Prices Vary
Here’s what’s happening with MRU athletics:
By Jana Abbara
Cougar Night Celebrates MRU’s Top Student-Athletes:
Mount Royal University rolled out the red carpet at Bella Concert Hall for Cougar Night 2026, honouring the achievements of its student-athletes, coaches, and staff from the 2025–26 season. The evening highlighted team MVPs, major award winners, and standout performances across all programs.
Among the night’s top honours, Tamara Djurisic and Chanan Chanda were named Athletes of the Year, while Kale Orr and Isa MacPhee earned Rookie of the Year recognition. Sam Barnie and Allee Gerrard received the prestigious Brian Fleming Award, celebrating excellence in athletics, academics, and community involvement.
The event celebrated not only individual success but the continued growth, leadership, and impact of Cougar Athletics both on and off the field.
Sharing is caring!
Any time you see an article on the Calgary Journal website that you enjoy, please don’t hesitate to share it with your network — our reporters and editorial team appreciate the exposure.
If you were forwarded this newsletter or found it on our website, subscribe to receive weekly highlights from the Calgary Journal here.
Thank you for reading. Until next week!
