Paraguay Joins Artemis Accords Coalition as 67th Nation

The Republic of Paraguay has officially become the 67th nation to sign the Artemis Accords, cementing its commitment to the shared principles guiding civil space exploration. The agreement was ratified during a ceremony held in Asunción on Thursday, marking a significant expansion of the coalition dedicated to the peaceful and transparent exploration of the Moon and Mars.

NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman welcomed the move, stating that the addition of Paraguay strengthens the group of like-minded nations working toward responsible space activities. The Administrator noted that the accord, established in 2020 by the United States and seven founding nations, provides the practical framework for safety and coordination as governments and private companies increasingly engage in lunar activities.

On behalf of Paraguay, Osvaldo Almirón Riveros, Minister President of the Paraguayan Space Agency, signed the document. He described the event as a historic milestone for the country, reflecting a deep commitment to international cooperation and the peaceful use of outer space. Riveros highlighted that the agreement opens new opportunities for research, innovation, and the sustainable development of national space capabilities.

The Paraguayan Space Agency, which was established in 2014, has focused its efforts on satellite technology and Earth observation through various international partnerships. The agency previously demonstrated its growing expertise in 2021 when it successfully launched its first satellite, GuaraníSat‑1, from the International Space Station.

Looking ahead, the agency is preparing to launch its second satellite, GuaraníSat‑2, in October. This upcoming mission will be conducted aboard a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The project has been developed in collaboration with NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and other partners, further integrating Paraguay into the broader ecosystem of space exploration.

By signing the Artemis Accords, Paraguay has agreed to a set of principles that include exploring peaceably, rendering aid to those in need, and ensuring that scientific data remains accessible to all of humanity. The accord also mandates that activities do not interfere with those of others and that historically significant sites be preserved. As more countries are expected to join the initiative, the framework aims to establish a safe and prosperous future for space exploration.