The States Parties to this Agreement,

Noting the achievements of States in the exploration and use of the Moon and other celestial bodies,

Recognizing that the Moon, as a natural satellite of the Earth, has an important role to play in the exploration of outer space,

Determined to promote on the basis of equality the further development of cooperation among States in the exploration and use of the Moon and other celestial bodies,

Desiring to prevent the Moon from becoming an area of international conflict,

Bearing in mind the benefits which may be derived from the exploitation of the natural resources of the Moon and other celestial bodies,

Recalling the Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies,(1) the Agreement on the Rescue of Astronauts, the Return of Astronauts and the Return of Objects Launched into Outer Space,(2) the Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects,(3) and the Convention on Registration
of Objects Launched into Outer Space,(4)

Taking into account the need to define and develop the provisions of these international instruments in relation to the Moon and other celestial bodies, having regard to further progress in the exploration and use of outer space,

Have agreed on the following: