Riyadh — The Saudi Space Agency has signed an executive agreement with NASA to launch the Kingdom’s first satellite dedicated to studying space weather, as part of the Artemis II lunar mission. The move strengthens Saudi-U.S. cooperation in space science and technology, and activates the bilateral space framework signed in July 2024.
The agreement also builds on Saudi Arabia’s participation in the Artemis Accords, a multinational initiative to explore the moon, Mars, asteroids, and comets for peaceful purposes.
Signed during U.S. President Donald J. Trump’s visit to the Kingdom, the deal reflects deepening strategic cooperation between the two nations in innovation and scientific advancement.
The mission is part of the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP) under Vision 2030, and aims to localize space technologies, increase domestic content in strategic industries, and elevate Saudi Arabia’s role in global scientific research.
The satellite will collect high-resolution solar activity data to improve understanding of its impact on Earth’s magnetosphere, enhancing the safety of astronauts and protecting satellite and communication systems.
The project also aims to develop national talent in space science, positioning the Kingdom for leadership in the knowledge-based economy.
