As the first crewed mission to orbit the Moon in more than 50 years, Artemis II saw astronauts travel aboard Space Launch System and the Orion spacecraft—a significant milestone in the next era of space exploration.

In his message, The King highlighted the importance of sustainability and shared responsibility as humanity expands its presence beyond Earth. He emphasized that as global space activity accelerates, so too must efforts to ensure its long-term stewardship.

Central to this vision is the Astra Carta, launched under the Sustainable Markets Initiative to guide the development of a sustainable space economy. The Astra Carta sets out a framework for responsible practices in space, encouraging collaboration, innovation, and the protection of the space environment for future generations.

In his letter, His Majesty wrote: “May the stars align in your favour, and may your safe return inspire countless others to uphold the values of sustainability, cooperation and wonder that the Astra Carta enshrines.”

Drawing parallels with his earlier Terra Carta—which calls for Nature, people and planet to be placed at the heart of global value creation—The King underscored his enduring commitment to ensuring that sustainability principles extend beyond Earth and into space.

As exploration, commercial activity and innovation continue to expand across the space sector, this message reinforces His Majesty’s long-standing belief that sustainability must remain central. Not only on our planet, but across the wider universe.

Read the full letter here