State Department Launches Space Catalyst Partnership

During Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s trip to Peru last week, the State Department announced a new Space Catalyst Partnership with Artemis Accords countries to expand commercial and civil space cooperation. A first step will be a $6.5 million rural connectivity project in southern Peru if Congress provides the funding. The initiative encompasses all Artemis Accords signatories, however. Djibouti became the 72nd earlier today.

The Space Catalyst Partnership or SCP will use diplomatic outreach, industry engagement, and the targeted use of foreign assistance to form ties between partner countries and “the vibrant U.S. space ecosystem.”

The $6.5 million rural connectivity project in Peru is the first effort. A State Department official speaking on background today stressed that it is subject to the availability of funds from Congress and declined to identify what U.S. company is involved.

Future plans will proceed on a project by project basis with a goal of creating export opportunities for the U.S. space industry by working with countries who are willing to invest their own resources, too. The U.S. as a partner of choice, especially in this hemisphere, is another focus.

NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman posted on X that NASA will be working with the State Department.

Looking forward to working with @StateDept on the new Space Catalyst Partnership and deepening cooperation with the Artemis Accords signatories. By bringing together our international partners and the American space ecosystem, we can create new opportunities in civil and… https://t.co/PWU0EJeS8w

— NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman (@NASAAdmin) September 12, 2026

In 2024, Peru was the 41st country to sign the Artemis Accords and this past May hosted the 4th Artemis Accords workshop. Several countries have joined since, including Djibouti which became the 72nd signatory during a ceremony at NASA HQ today hosted by Deputy Administrator Matt Anderson.

The Artemis Accords set out 10 principles for responsible behavior on the Moon. This initiative is focused on more earthly endeavors, but the State Department says it includes the goal of “ensuring outer space is used safely, peacefully, and transparently” to benefit everyone.