NASA, International Partners Deepen Commitment to Artemis Accords
On September 29, 2025, representatives from the signatory nations of the Artemis Accords gathered for a pivotal meeting during the 76th International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Sydney, Australia. This significant event, co-chaired by NASA, the Australian Space Agency, and the UAE Space Agency, brought together leaders from various global space agencies to reinforce the practical principles established by the Artemis Accords. These accords, initiated by the United States under the Trump administration in 2020, aim to guide the responsible exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond, emphasizing peaceful cooperation and sustainable practices in space exploration. Acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy marked the five-year anniversary of the accords, highlighting their importance in fostering international collaboration and setting the groundwork for future exploration, especially in light of growing competition from nations like China.
Since their inception, the Artemis Accords have garnered support from 56 countries, representing nearly 30% of the world’s nations. During the meeting, participants discussed crucial topics such as non-interference in space activities, transparency regarding launch schedules, and the management of orbital debris. These discussions reflect a collective commitment to ensuring that space exploration is conducted safely and sustainably. Enrico Palermo, head of the Australian Space Agency, emphasized Australia’s role as a founding signatory and its dedication to supporting new signatories in the Indo-Pacific region. Meanwhile, UAE Space Agency Chairman Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi underscored the UAE’s commitment to fostering international partnerships and promoting the peaceful use of space, highlighting the importance of transparency and innovation in space activities.
As the Artemis Accords continue to evolve, more nations are expected to join the initiative, further expanding the coalition dedicated to responsible space exploration. This growing coalition not only aims to enhance cooperation among nations but also seeks to open new frontiers for scientific research and innovation. With the Artemis Accords serving as a foundational framework, NASA and its international partners are poised to lead the way in establishing a safe and prosperous future in space exploration. For more information about the Artemis Accords, visit NASA’s official page [here](https://www.nasa.gov/artemis-accords).
Representatives of the Artemis Accords signatories, including acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy and NASA Associate Administrator Amit Kshatriya, met Sept. 29, 2025, for a principals meeting during the 76th International Astronautical Congress in Sydney.
Credit: NASA/Max van Otterdyk
NASA, along with leaders from global space agencies and government representatives worldwide, convened on Monday to further the implementation of the Artemis Accords — practical principles designed to guide the responsible exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
The meeting was held during the 76th International Astronautical Congress (IAC) taking place in Sydney. In opening remarks, acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy highlighted the five-year anniversary of the Artemis Accords next month.
“When President Trump launched the Artemis Accords in his first term, he made sure American values would lead the way – bringing together a coalition of nations to set the rules of the road in space and ensure exploration remains peaceful. After five years, the coalition is stronger than ever. This is critical as we seek to beat China to the Moon, not just to leave footprints, but this time to stay,” said Duffy.
The United States, led by NASA and the U.S. Department of State, signed the accords on Oct. 13, 2020, with seven other founding nations. The accords were created in response to the growing global interest in lunar activities by governments and private companies. They now comprise 56 country signatories — nearly 30% of the world’s countries.
The event was co-chaired by NASA, the Australian Space Agency, and the UAE Space Agency. Dozens of nations were represented, creating the foundation for future space exploration for the Golden Age of exploration and innovation.
“Australia is a proud founding signatory of the Artemis Accords and is focused on supporting new signatories in the Indo-Pacific region,” said Head of Australian Space Agency Enrico Palermo. “The purpose of the accords is as important — if not more important — as it was when first established. This annual gathering of principals at IAC 2025 is a key opportunity to reaffirm our collective commitment to exploring the Moon, Mars and beyond in a peaceful, safe, and sustainable way.”
During the meeting, leaders discussed recommendations for non-interference in each other’s space activities including transparency on expected launch dates, general nature of activities, and landing locations. They also discussed orbital debris mitigation and disposal management, interoperability of systems for safer and more efficient operations, and the release of scientific data.
In May 2025, the United Arab Emirates hosted an
Artemis Accords workshop
focused on topics, such as non-interference and space object registration and reporting beyond Earth orbit.
“Through our active participation in the Artemis Accords and by organizing specialised workshops, we aim to reinforce the principles of transparency, sustainability, and innovation in space activities. We are committed to strengthening international partnerships and facilitating the exchange of expertise, thereby contributing to the development of a robust global framework for safe and responsible space exploration, while opening new frontiers for scientific research,” said UAE Minister of Sports and Chairman of UAE Space Agency Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi. “This reflects the UAE’s unwavering commitment to enhancing international cooperation in space exploration and promoting the peaceful use of space.”
More countries are expected to sign the Artemis Accords in the months and years ahead, as NASA continues its work to establish a safe, peaceful, and prosperous future in space.
Learn more about the Artemis Accords at:
https://www.nasa.gov/artemis-accords
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Bethany Stevens / Elizabeth Shaw
Headquarters, Washington
202-358-1600
bethany.c.stevens@nasa.gov
/
elizabeth.a.shaw@nasa.gov
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Last Updated
Sep 30, 2025
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