Portugal has officially joined the Artemis Accords as the 60th signatory, reinforcing its commitment to responsible exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond in partnership with NASA. The signing took place on January 11, 2024, when Portugal’s Secretary of State for Science and Innovation, Helena Canhão, represented the nation in this significant agreement.
Jared Isaacman, NASA Administrator, remarked on the achievement, stating, “Portugal joins a cadre of nations building the framework for safe, transparent, and prosperous activity in space.” He emphasized the importance of international collaboration in advancing innovation and exploring the universe, referring to this era as “our generation’s Golden Age of Exploration.”
The signing ceremony occurred in Lisbon during a semi-annual meeting focused on enhancing cooperation between the governments of Portugal and the United States. U.S. Ambassador to Portugal, John J. Arrigo, highlighted the significance of the Accords, noting that shared principles are vital for maintaining space as a domain of stability and opportunity for all nations.
In reflecting on the historic moment, Hugo Costa, executive director of the newly established Portuguese Space Agency, connected this initiative to Portugal’s rich history of exploration. He stated, “2026 is the year in which humans will return to the Moon. It will mark the beginning of a new era of space exploration, reminiscent of the Portuguese explorers of the past, such as Magellan and his circumnavigation of our planet.”
The Artemis Accords, first established in 2020, were a collaborative effort led by the United States, NASA, and the U.S. Department of State, along with seven other founding nations. This framework aims to promote safe, transparent, and cooperative civil space exploration. By signing the Accords, countries commit to principles such as peaceful exploration, assistance to those in need, and the preservation of historically significant sites.
The inclusion of Portugal in this agreement exemplifies a growing international interest in lunar activities, both from government entities and private companies. As more nations recognize the value of the Artemis Accords, additional signatories are anticipated in the coming years.
Portugal’s participation underscores its dedication to sustainable and responsible practices in space. The Portuguese Space Agency aims to contribute to the beneficial use of space for all humanity, aligning with the Accords’ vision for a cooperative future in outer space exploration.
