The United States warmly welcomed Finland as the 53rd signatory of the Artemis Accords during a ceremony at Aalto University’s Winter Satellite Workshop on January 23, 2025. Minister of Economic Affairs Wille Rydman represented the Government of Finland, signing the Accords in the presence of U.S. Embassy Helsinki Chargé d’Affaires Christopher Krafft.
Strengthening Space Exploration Partnerships
The signing of the Artemis Accords underscores the strong and growing partnership between the United States and Finland, which is built upon a foundation of shared democratic values, a deep commitment to space exploration, and technological innovation. By joining the Artemis Accords, Finland affirms its dedication to promoting responsible, sustainable practices in space exploration while contributing to the global community’s pursuit of peaceful and collaborative space activities.
A Global Framework for Sustainable Space Exploration
The Artemis Accords, established in 2020 by the United States and seven partner nations, provide a framework of practical principles designed to guide responsible exploration of outer space. Finland’s decision to join this international effort reflects its alignment with the goals of the Accords, which include transparency, peaceful cooperation, and the sustainable use of space resources. Finland’s participation strengthens the growing coalition of nations committed to ensuring that space exploration remains an inclusive, cooperative endeavor for the benefit of all humanity.
A Global Coalition for Peaceful Space Exploration
Finland joins a diverse group of nations, including Angola, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Canada, France, Germany, Israel, Japan, the United Kingdom, and many others, in affirming these principles. The Artemis Accords now encompass 53 signatories, each united by the vision of advancing peaceful, collaborative space exploration that ensures long-term benefits for Earth and its inhabitants.
U.S. Commitment to International Space Cooperation
The signing ceremony marks another milestone in the U.S. Department of State and NASA’s ongoing efforts to foster international collaboration and implement the Artemis Accords. The United States remains committed to engaging with its global partners in space exploration and ensuring that space remains a domain for peaceful, responsible activity that benefits all nations.