Liechtenstein has expanded its involvement in global space exploration by becoming the newest signatory of the Artemis Accords on December 20. This addition brings the number of participating countries to over half of a significant United Nations body.
Liechtenstein’s director of the Office for Communications, Rainer Schnepfleitner, officially signed the Artemis Accords during a ceremony held at NASA Headquarters. The event was attended by several dignitaries including the nation’s ambassador to the United States, Georg Sparber, and the U.S. ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein, Scott Miller.
The Artemis Accords represent a collective commitment to the peaceful use of outer space, aiming to facilitate collaboration and transparency among nations. Speaking on the occasion, Georg Sparber emphasized the principality’s dedication to these principles, highlighting that Liechtenstein hopes to contribute to the peaceful advancement of space endeavors. “With its participation in the Artemis Accords, Liechtenstein looks forward to advancing space exploration among a strong group of like-minded countries committed to the peaceful use of space for the benefit of all humanity,” Sparber noted.
Pam Melroy, NASA’s Deputy Administrator, underscored the significance of Liechtenstein’s participation, stating that each new signatory brings renewed energy and capabilities to this international initiative. “Liechtenstein’s commitment strengthens our vision, where space is explored with peace, transparency and sustainability as guiding principles,” she remarked.
As the 52nd nation to join this collaborative framework, Liechtenstein follows closely on the heels of Thailand, Panama, and Austria, who recently signed the Accords as well. The current composition of the Artemis Accords includes more than 50% signatories of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS), although Liechtenstein itself is not a COPUOS member.
Mike Gold, Redwire’s chief growth officer and former NASA official, highlighted this milestone’s significance. He pointed out that the Accords now reflect a broad global consensus on crucial issues such as resource utilization in space, interoperability, and transparency. “This transforms the American-led values of the Accords into a true global consensus on vital issues such as interoperability, due regard, transparency and, in particular, the utilization of space resources,” Gold stated.
The Accords provide a platform for discussing emergent issues, facilitating progress that can often surpass the consensus-driven pace of COPUOS. Valda Vikmanis from the State Department’s Office of Space Affairs praised the dialogues fostered by the Artemis Accords for their frankness and opportunity to share and develop ideas.
Originating during the Trump administration, the Artemis Accords were established with the first signatories joining in October 2020. Mike Gold expressed hope that the Accords will continue to support lunar and Martian activities across government and private sectors.
Liechtenstein’s entry into the Artemis Accords underscores the growing international willingness to unite under shared principles for space exploration. By joining this initiative, Liechtenstein adds its voice to a global narrative focused on peace, cooperation, and sustainable development in space.
Source: Spacenews
