RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has signed a groundbreaking agreement with NASA to launch its first satellite dedicated to studying space weather, as part of the Artemis II mission.
This partnership marks a significant step forward in Saudi–US scientific collaboration and highlights the Kingdom’s expanding role in international space exploration efforts.
The agreement was signed during the official visit of U.S. President Donald Trump to Riyadh and builds on a broader Saudi–U.S. space cooperation framework established in July 2024.
It reflects the growing strength of bilateral ties in science, technology, and innovation.
Led by the Saudi Space Agency (SSA), the mission supports Saudi Arabia’s commitment to the Artemis Accords, an international agreement promoting peaceful and cooperative exploration of the Moon, Mars, and deep space.
The satellite will gather high-resolution data on solar activity and its impact on Earth’s magnetic field, aiding global efforts to protect astronauts, improve satellite-based communication and navigation systems, and enhance space weather prediction.
This initiative is part of the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP), a key component of Vision 2030.
It aims to boost local industrial capabilities, foster innovation, and develop national talent in advanced technologies, including the space sector.
