Armenia has officially become the 43rd signatory of the Artemis Accords, with NASA Administrator Bill Nelson marking the occasion during a ceremony at NASA Headquarters in Washington with officials from the U.S. State Department. Armenia aligns with 42 other nations that endorse the principles of safe, transparent, and accountable space exploration endeavors, focusing on the Moon, Mars, and other celestial destinations.
“We are thrilled to have Armenia onboard the Artemis Accords, furthering our collaborative efforts in peaceful space exploration,” remarked Nelson. “This is a significant step building upon Armenia’s rich history of celestial observation and contribution to our understanding of space. Joining as the tenth country this year, Armenia exemplifies how space exploration can be a unifying force. Together, we will extend the frontiers of space.”
On Armenia’s behalf, the agreement was inked by Mkhitar Hayrapetyan, Minister of High-Tech Industry. Lilit Makunts, the Armenian ambassador to the United States, and Jennifer R. Littlejohn, acting assistant secretary for the Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs of the State Department, also attended the signing ceremony.
“Armenia’s commitment to the Artemis Accords affirms our dedication to expanding human achievement and knowledge in space,” stated Hayrapetyan. “This venture will boost our technological progress and inspire a new wave of Armenian innovators and explorers to reach for the stars.”
Initially signed in 2020 by the U.S. and seven other countries, the Artemis Accords lay out foundational principles based on the Outer Space Treaty and other established space agreements, including the Registration Convention and the Rescue and Return Agreement. These principles uphold the public disclosure of scientific data, among other responsible space exploration practices. Additional nations are anticipated to join the accords in the future.
The principles enshrined in the Artemis Accords and the collaborative spirit they foster are essential for the advancement of NASA’s Artemis mission and for the successful and sustainable exploratory endeavors of all signatory nations.
For supplemental content regarding the Artemis Accords, please visit:
https://www.nasa.gov/artemis-accords/
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Faith McKie / Jennifer Dooren
Headquarters, Washington
202-358-1600
faith.d.mckie@nasa.gov / jennifer.m.dooren@nasa.gov
FAQ about Armenia Joining the Artemis Accords
What are the Artemis Accords?
The Artemis Accords are a series of agreements that establish a framework for cooperative lunar exploration and beyond. They are based on the principles of the 1967 Outer Space Treaty and aim to promote peaceful, transparent, and sustainable activities in space.
When did Armenia sign the Artemis Accords?
Armenia signed the Artemis Accords on a ceremony held at NASA Headquarters in Washington with officials from the U.S. State Department.
How many countries have signed the Artemis Accords?
With Armenia’s signature, a total of 43 countries have now signed the Artemis Accords.
What does signing the Artemis Accords mean for Armenia?
By signing the Artemis Accords, Armenia has pledged to harmonize its space exploration efforts with international standards for safety, sustainability, and peaceful cooperation. It also opens doors for Armenia to participate in cooperative space missions and benefit from shared knowledge and technological advancements.
Are more countries expected to sign the Artemis Accords?
Yes, it is expected that more countries will join the Artemis Accords in the future as international interest in space exploration continues to grow.