Thailand’s government has reportedly given it the go ahead to sign the Artemis Accords, joining almost four dozen other nations who have agreed to prioritize responsible and sustainable space operations.
“Joining the accords will benefit the development of space technology in Thailand, enabling the country’s space economy and industry to compete at the international level, as well as enhancing the advancements in science and technology for the benefit of the public,” Supamas Isarabhakdi, Thailand’s minister of higher education, science, research and innovation, said, according to The Nation.
Not like the others: Thailand is now poised to become the first Artemis Accords signatory who is also participating in the Chinese-led International Lunar Research Station (ILRS).
Through the ILRS, China is intending to build a facility on the lunar south pole by 2035 to allow for scientific experimentation carried out by both robotic and human tenants, according to a Chinese press release.
Organizations that participate in the ILRS are also supposed to support “the principles of mutual consultation, joint construction, and shared benefits to foster collaborative efforts with global partners,” the release said.
Come one, come all: The Artemis Accords are often portrayed as being at odds with China’s ILRS, but US officials have been clear that all nations are welcome to sign on. State Department officials have also explicitly stated that there’s nothing to prohibit a country from signing the accords in addition to joining the Chinese-led effort.
What’s next: NASA has yet to announce a signing ceremony that would formally welcome Thailand as a signatory to the Artemis Accords.
