The Artemis Accords: The End of Multilateralism in the Management of Outer Space?

The Artemis Accords, an initiative by the United States, establishes guiding principles relating to the exploration and use of the Moon and other celestial bodies. By using the example of interpretational issues pertaining to property and possessory rights in outer space, this paper demonstrates that the Artemis Accords have effectively put in place an alternate framework relating to the law of outer space. The development does not bode well for the prospects of a multilateral approach towards addressing global issues, especially for a global commons like outer space. Further, important spacefaring states have expressed concerns regarding the Artemis Accords, which risk establishing a fragmented approach toward exploration and use of outer space.