Turkey signs the Artemis Accords as the 71st participating country

Turkey has become the 71st country to join NASA's Artemis Accords, which aim for peaceful and transparent space exploration efforts on the Moon and beyond, with the signature of Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacır.

Signing Ceremony at NASA Headquarters

At the ceremony held at NASA Headquarters, Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacır signed the Artemis Accords on behalf of Turkey, formalizing the country's participation in this field. The ceremony was attended by NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman, U.S. Department of State Assistant Secretary for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs Connor Tomlinson, and Turkish Space Agency President Yusuf Kıraç.

International Cooperation Goals

The Artemis Accords aim to strengthen cooperation among countries in space exploration on the Moon, Mars, and beyond, ensuring that activities are conducted in a peaceful and transparent manner. Countries signing the agreement adopt principles such as ensuring access to scientific data, preventing space activities from interfering with one another, and providing assistance in times of need.

Turkey's Space Missions

Turkey's participation in the Artemis Accords coincided with a period when the country's crewed space activities and Moon mission operations are ongoing. Turkey's first astronaut, Alper Gezeravcı, went to the International Space Station in 2024 to conduct scientific research.

Space Congress in Antalya

Turkey's signing of the agreement took place ahead of the International Astronautical Congress planned to be held in Antalya in October. A NASA statement noted that many countries that have signed the Artemis Accords are expected to attend the congress to discuss the future of peaceful and transparent space exploration.