Introduction
When the Kingdom of Morocco signed the Artemis Accords on April 29, 2026, in Rabat, it became the 64th nation to commit to responsible space exploration. This milestone shows that countries of all sizes can participate in humanity's greatest adventure. If your nation is considering joining, this guide outlines the practical steps based on how Morocco and other signatories have done it. From understanding the core principles to holding a signing ceremony, you'll learn exactly what it takes to become part of the Artemis community.
What You Need
- A national commitment to peaceful, transparent space exploration that benefits all humanity.
- Official authorization from your government's foreign ministry or space agency to negotiate and sign international agreements.
- Basic infrastructure for space activities (even if limited) — this shows good faith engagement with the space community.
- A designated representative — typically a foreign minister or space agency head authorized to sign the accords.
- Willingness to share scientific data openly and to provide assistance to other nations in distress during space missions.
- Readiness to follow best practices for avoiding interference with other nations' activities and preserving historic sites on the Moon and beyond.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Familiarize Yourself with the Artemis Accords
The accords were established in 2020 by the United States, led by NASA and the State Department, together with seven founding nations. They are the first practical set of principles for safe and coordinated lunar exploration. Countries commit to explore peaceably and transparently, to render aid to those in need, to enable access to scientific data for all humanity, to ensure activities do not interfere with others, and to preserve historically significant sites and artifacts. Read the full text at NASA.gov/artemis-accords. Discuss the principles with your foreign ministry, space agency, and legal advisors to ensure alignment with national policies.
Step 2: Establish Diplomatic Contact
Reach out to the U.S. State Department and NASA's Office of International and Interagency Relations (OIIR). You can do this through your embassy in Washington, D.C., or directly via NASA's international affairs team. Express your country's interest in signing and ask for guidance on the next steps. Morocco's signing, for example, occurred during Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau's official visit, which shows that diplomatic engagement often precedes a formal ceremony. Build a relationship with key officials and attend international space conferences to signal your commitment.
Step 3: Prepare Your Government's Endorsement
Obtain formal approval from your head of state or relevant cabinet members. The signing is typically done by the foreign minister (as Morocco's Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita did) or a senior space agency official. Ensure your government understands that signing is not a treaty but a political commitment — it carries moral and diplomatic weight but does not require legislative ratification in most countries. However, some nations may want parliamentary support to show broad consensus. Morocco underscored its commitment to shared values across critical sectors, so make sure your endorsement reflects those values.
Step 4: Coordinate a Signing Ceremony
Work with NASA and the State Department to schedule a ceremony. It can happen at your capital city (like Rabat), at NASA Headquarters in Washington, or during a major space event. For Morocco, the ceremony took place in Rabat with the presence of U.S. Ambassador Duke Buchan III. Plan for recorded remarks from NASA leadership — Administrator Jared Isaacman highlighted how “the accords began as the framework for like-minded nations to come together for the peaceful exploration of space.” Consider live-streaming the event and inviting media to showcase your nation's dedication.
Step 5: Sign the Accords
On the designated day, your authorized representative signs the document. There is no set script, but you may want to make a brief statement outlining your country's vision. For instance, Isaacman also noted that “under President Trump’s vision for an enduring presence on the lunar surface, Artemis Accords partners will be able to make meaningful contributions.” After signing, NASA will add your country to the official list. Celebrate this milestone — it opens doors to collaboration on Artemis missions, data sharing, and joint research.
Step 6: Begin Active Participation
Signing is just the start. Now you can participate in working groups, attend Artemis Accords meetings, and propose projects. Share your scientific data openly, contribute to best practices for preserving lunar heritage, and coordinate your missions with other signatories. The accords encourage a community where “citizens from every Artemis nation will play a pivotal role in humanity’s greatest adventure.” Stay engaged with NASA and other members to maximize the benefits. More countries are expected to sign in the months ahead, so join early to help shape the framework.
Tips for Success
- Start early. Diplomatic processes can take months; begin informal discussions even before formal authorization.
- Involve multiple stakeholders. Bring your foreign ministry, space agency, science community, and legal experts together early.
- Be transparent. Share your national space plans with other signatories to build trust and find synergies.
- Consider partnerships. If your nation has limited space experience, team up with an established signatory — Morocco, for example, might partner with European or African neighbors.
- Use the momentum. The accords are growing rapidly; leveraging news of other signings can help gain political support at home.
- Preserve the spirit. Remember the core ideals: peaceful exploration, mutual aid, and sharing knowledge for all. This is what makes the Artemis Accords unique.
By following these steps, your country can join the growing family of Artemis Accords nations and help build a safe, peaceful, and prosperous future in space.