Angola is the third African nation to sign the accords, after Rwanda and Nigeria, which joined in December 2022 during the US-Africa Leaders Summit.
Angola has signed the Artemis Accords, led by the United States, marking a significant step in fostering best practices for space exploration. This makes Angola the third African nation to align with the principles outlined in the Artemis Accords.
The signing took place during the visit of Angolas president, João Lourenço, to the White House to meet with President Joe Biden.
The Artemis Accords, initiated in 2020 by NASA in collaboration with the US Department of State and seven other original signatories, provide a practical framework for nations involved in space exploration cooperation, particularly those engaged in NASA’s Artemis programme.
These Accords establish a set of principles that guide collaboration and reinforce key obligations outlined in the 1967 Outer Space Treaty. Additionally, they strengthen commitments to the Registration Convention, the Rescue and Return Agreement, and uphold best practices and norms of responsible behaviour. This includes the public release of scientific data, aligning with NASA and its partners’ dedication to transparency and responsible space exploration.
Originally signed by eight nations, the Artemis Accords have seen ongoing discussions among signatories on effective implementation strategies. Angola’s recent endorsement reflects a growing international interest in joining this collaborative effort.
As more countries are anticipated to sign the Artemis Accords in the coming months and years, NASA continues its collaboration with global partners to establish a future in space that is safe, peaceful, and prosperous.
