NASA Chief, Luxembourg Economy Minister Sign Space Resources Framework Agreement

Luxembourg's Ministry of the Economy and the Luxembourg Space Agency (LSA) have announced that the United States and the Grand Duchy signed a new framework agreement, on Friday 13 December 2024, to cooperate in the exploration of space resources for peaceful purposes.

On the occasion of his visit to Luxembourg, the head of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Bill Nelson, met with Luxembourg's Minister of the Economy, SMEs, Energy and Tourism, Lex Delles, to discuss in greater detail collaboration between the US and Luxembourg in the space sector. During this meeting, they signed a new ten-year framework agreement between the governments of the two countries, aimed at strengthening their cooperation in the exploration and use of space resources for peaceful purposes.

This framework agreement provides for the establishment of a legal framework to facilitate joint scientific and technological projects, "in a spirit of transparency and for the benefit of mankind". In particular, the parties have agreed to develop cooperative programmes, on Earth or in space, which may include a variety of activities such as the exchange of scientific data or personnel, terrestrial and space applications, research facilities, scientific instruments, education and public awareness activities, or participation in joint workshops or meetings. These activities will be carried out by NASA on the US side, and by the Ministry of Economy and LSA on the Luxembourg side.

It follows on from the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2019, which stipulated that NASA and LSA intended to collaborate on civil space activities related to human exploration and robotics, space and Earth sciences, and space technology.

As reported by the ministry and LSA, this framework agreement is also in line with the Artemis Agreements. The US and Luxembourg were among the first eight signatories (now 50) of these agreements, which provide a common set of principles to improve the governance of civil exploration and use of outer space.

Following the meeting, Minister Delles stated: "This agreement reflects our ambition to promote innovation and contribute to the sustainable development of space activities for the benefit of all mankind. Its signature marks a milestone in cooperation between Luxembourg and the United States in the space sector. It reinforces our shared commitment to the peaceful and responsible exploration of space."

Bill Nelson added: "This historic agreement will further strengthen cooperation between the United States and Luxembourg in the field of space exploration and technology."

As part of his Luxembourg visit, the NASA Administrator is also set to participate in the commemorative ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge, which is taking place at the Luxembourg American Cemetery in Luxembourg-Hamm on Saturday 14 December. Afterwards, he will attend the official reception offered by the Luxembourg government at Senningen Castle, where he will have the opportunity to speak with Prime Minister Luc Frieden.

Moreover, Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg will receive Bill Nelson in audience at the Grand Ducal Palace.