Switzerland Signs Artemis Accords

Switzerland took a significant step in its space endeavors by formally signing the Artemis Accords, solidifying its commitment to sustainable space exploration. 

The ceremony, held at NASA Headquarters, saw Swiss Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin, the minister for economic affairs, education, and research, joining hands with NASA Administrator Bill Nelson and officials from both nations to endorse the accords.

"The Artemis Accords constitute a leap forward in space cooperation," - Guy Parmelin, Swiss Federal Councillor 

The historical ties between Switzerland and the United States in space exploration were highlighted during the ceremony, with Parmelin and Nelson recalling the collaboration dating back to the iconic Apollo 11 mission. Notably, one of the mission's early scientific instruments, a solar wind experiment, hailed from the University of Bern in Switzerland.

"It is all the more important that Switzerland would join a declaration of principles of the peaceful uses of space." - Bill Nelson, NASA Administrator 

Switzerland's involvement in space ventures extends beyond bilateral agreements. As one of the founding members of the European Space Agency (ESA), Switzerland adds another layer of support to the Artemis Accords. With Switzerland becoming the 13th full member of ESA to join the accords, and the 37th country overall, the agreement gains further traction on the global stage.

Parmelin shared insights into Switzerland's journey toward signing the accords, revealing that while the interest had been longstanding, internal governmental processes necessitated time before formal endorsement. 

Echoing Parmelin's sentiments, Martina Hirayama, Switzerland's state secretary for education, research, and innovation, highlighted the nation's recent advancements in space policy. With the adoption of a new space policy last year and ongoing efforts to develop the country's first national space act, Switzerland is poised to leverage the benefits of space exploration while emphasizing collaboration with European partners and beyond.

"The Swiss space policy also recognizes that these ambitions can only be fulfilled in close cooperation with our partners in Europe and beyond," - Martina Hirayama, Switzerland's State Secretary for Education, Research, and Innovation

As Switzerland formally embraces the Artemis Accords, the nation positions itself at the forefront of sustainable space exploration.