Promoting responsible space exploration
Bangladesh has officially become the 54th nation to sign Nasa’s Artemis Accords, joining a growing coalition of countries dedicated to the responsible, peaceful, and sustainable space exploration.
The signing ceremony occurred in Dhaka on April 8, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the Southeast Asia country’s growing involvement in global space activities.
The Artemis Accords, a set of practical space exploration guidelines, were established in 2020 by the United States and led by Nasa and the US Department of State. Initially signed by seven countries, the Accords now encompass over 50 nations.
These agreements are designed to ensure space exploration is conducted safely, transparently, and cooperatively, ensuring that all humanity shares the benefits of space exploration.
In a statement following the signing, Nasa’s Acting Administrator Janet Petro expressed her excitement about Bangladesh’s participation. “We are thrilled by Bangladesh’s signature of the Accords,” said Petro.
Bangladesh affirms its role in shaping the future of space exploration. This is about ensuring that our journey to the Moon – and beyond – is peaceful, sustainable, and transparent. We look forward to working together, learning from one another, and seeing how Bangladesh’s incredible talent and vision contribute to humanity’s next great chapter in space.”
The signing ceremony was attended by Ashraf Uddin, the Secretary of Defence for Bangladesh, who represented the country in signing the Artemis Accords. Charge d’Affaires Tracey Jacobson from the US Embassy in Dhaka also participated, and a pre-recorded message from Janet Petro reflected Nasa’s commitment to international collaboration in space.
Bangladesh’s Chief Advisor, Muhammad Yunus, highlighted the significance of the country’s involvement in the Artemis Accords.
“Bangladesh’s commitment to the Artemis Accords will enhance the country’s engagement with Nasa’s and the international community,” said Yunus. “By signing the accords, Bangladesh builds upon an important foundation for the open, responsible, and peaceful space exploration.”
The Artemis Accords are built on the principles of the Outer Space Treaty and other key international agreements, such as the Registration Convention and the Rescue and Return Agreement. The Accords include guidelines on transparency, the responsible use of space resources, and the public release of scientific data, encouraging cooperative and ethical behaviour in space exploration.
As Bangladesh continues to make strides in space, the Artemis Accords serve as a crucial framework for ensuring that space exploration is conducted in a manner that benefits all nations while preserving the peaceful and cooperative use of outer space for future generations.
Hero image: As of April 9, 2025, 54 nations have endorsed the Artemis Accords. Credit: Nasa
