Oman Signs Artemis Accords, Becomes 61st Nation to Support Responsible Space Exploration
Muscat, Oman — The Sultanate of Oman has officially signed the Artemis Accords, reinforcing its commitment to peaceful and responsible space exploration and becoming the 61st country to join the international initiative. The signing ceremony took place on Monday in Muscat and was attended by representatives from NASA.
In recorded remarks during the event, NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman welcomed Oman’s decision, emphasizing the importance of shared values such as transparency, cooperation, and responsible behavior as humanity advances toward returning to the Moon and preparing for future missions beyond Earth.
Signing Ceremony Held During Middle East Space Conference
The signing coincided with the opening of the Middle East Space Conference, a regional forum focused on space science, innovation, and emerging technologies. The event was attended by U.S. Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman Ana Escrogima and NASA Deputy Associate Administrator Casey Swails.
Oman was represented by Said al-Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology, who signed the Artemis Accords on behalf of the Sultanate.
What Are the Artemis Accords?
Established in 2020 by the United States and led by NASA and the U.S. Department of State, the Artemis Accords were created in response to growing global interest in lunar exploration and expanded space activities involving both governments and private companies.
The accords outline practical principles aimed at enhancing safety, transparency, and coordination in civil space exploration on the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
Key Principles of the Artemis Accords
- Peaceful and transparent space exploration
- Providing assistance to astronauts in distress
- Sharing scientific data for the benefit of humanity
- Avoiding harmful interference with the activities of others
- Preserving historically significant space sites and artifacts
- Developing best practices for sustainable space operations
Growing Global Support for Space Cooperation
NASA expects additional countries to join the Artemis Accords in the coming months and years, further strengthening international cooperation and supporting a safe, peaceful, and prosperous future in space.
