Bangladesh Signs Artemis Accords with NASA for Space Exploration

Bangladesh has taken a significant leap in its space exploration endeavors by signing the Artemis Accords with NASA on Tuesday. This marks a pivotal step towards fostering non-military space activities and deepening international collaboration in space research.

The agreement was formalized by representatives from the Space Research and Remote Sensing Organization (SPARRSO) and NASA, during a ceremony held on the second day of the four-day Bangladesh Investment Summit at the InterContinental Hotel in Dhaka. Among the attendees were Bangladesh Investment and Development Authority (BIDA) Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun and Charge d’Affaires of the US Embassy in Dhaka, Tracey Ann Jacobson.

The Artemis Accords outline a set of non-binding principles and best practices that promote peaceful and sustainable space exploration. Grounded in the principles of the Outer Space Treaty and other key international space agreements, the Accords aim to ensure the safe, transparent, and cooperative use of space for the benefit of all humanity.

Since its establishment in 1980, SPARRSO has played a key role in Bangladesh’s space research initiatives, adhering to international norms for the peaceful use of space. By signing the Artemis Accords, Bangladesh has committed to following these best practices, helping to shape the future of space exploration while fostering international cooperation.

The Artemis Accords, first launched by NASA in 2020, have been adopted by 53 countries, including major spacefaring nations such as the United States, United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, India, and the United Arab Emirates. Bangladesh’s inclusion in this prestigious alliance will open new avenues for technological advancements, scientific collaboration, and economic partnerships in the space sector.

One of the key benefits for Bangladesh is the opportunity to engage in direct collaboration with NASA and other space agencies. This partnership will enable SPARRSO to enhance its capabilities and accelerate its space missions, including satellite programs and Earth observation systems.

Through this collaboration, Bangladesh stands to gain access to state-of-the-art space technology, satellite systems, and scientific research that can enhance its climate monitoring and disaster management efforts. Given the country’s vulnerability to natural disasters such as floods and cyclones, the development of advanced Earth observation satellites is crucial for effective response and recovery.

Furthermore, Bangladeshi scientists and universities will have the opportunity to participate in joint space research projects, benefiting from NASA’s training programs, scholarships, and exchange initiatives. This could significantly boost the country’s expertise in space science and technology.

The Artemis Accords provide a framework for the peaceful, sustainable exploration of space, ensuring that future human activities beyond Earth are conducted responsibly and cooperatively. By signing this agreement, Bangladesh is not only strengthening its space program but also positioning itself as an active player in the global space exploration community.

This agreement marks a new chapter in Bangladesh's growing space capabilities, with promising prospects for scientific, technological, and educational advancements that will benefit the nation in the years to come.