Saudi Arabia announce joining Artemis Accords, affirming its commitment to sustainable space exploration guided by a common set of principles that promote the beneficial use of space for all of humanity.
H.E. Mohammed Altamimi, CEO of the Saudi Space Commission, signed the Accords on behalf of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in a ceremony in Riyadh on 16 July 2022. The Artemis Accords will offer a wealth of opportunities for the industry and scientific research sector in Saudi Arabia, and will allow an active contribution to the Artemis activities and extend and deepen such mutually beneficial partnerships. It will also provide the opportunity to enhance the international partnerships for the peaceful exploration of space, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.
“Joining Artemis Accords reaffirms the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia commitment to empower people, safeguard the planet and shape new frontiers. This shared vision for space will not only help to create a safe and sustainable space exploration activities but also supercharge the science and innovation activities to build a better future for all humanity,” said H.E. Abdullah Alswaha Chairman of the Board of the Saudi Space Commission.
“Today Saudi Arabia adds its voice to a diverse and growing set of nations. Together we can ensure that humanity’s rapid expansion into space, toward the Moon and destinations beyond, will be done peaceably, safely, and in full accordance with international law,” said NASA Administrator Senator Bill Nelson, who participated in the ceremony.
The Artemis Accords are a set of principles to guide the next phase in space exploration, reinforcing and providing for important operational implementation of key obligations in the 1967 Outer Space Treaty. The Accords also reinforce the commitment by the United States and signatory nations to the Registration Convention, the Rescue and Return Agreement, as well as best practices and norms of responsible behavior that NASA and its partners have supported, including the public release of scientific data.
