Sean Duffy: NASA and International Partners Deepen Commitment to Artemis Accords

leaders discussed recommendations for non-interference in each other’s space activities

NASA – NASA, along with leaders from global space agencies and government representatives worldwide, convened recently 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, which took place in Sydney. In opening remarks, acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy highlighted the fifth 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 October 13, 2020, with seven other founding nations.

The accords were established in response to the increasing global interest in lunar activities among governments and private companies. They now comprise 56 country signatories — nearly 30% of the world’s countries.

NASA, the Australian Space Agency, and the UAE Space Agency co-chaired the event. Dozens of nations were represented, laying the groundwork for future space exploration during 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, the 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.

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