No country controls the Moon.
While the United States was the first nation to land astronauts on the Moon, this achievement does not grant them ownership. International law, specifically the 1967 Outer Space Treaty, prohibits any nation from claiming sovereignty over the Moon or any other celestial body.
The 1967 Outer Space Treaty
This treaty, formally known as the "Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies," is the cornerstone of international space law. It explicitly states that:
- No national appropriation: Outer space, including the Moon, is not subject to national appropriation by claim of sovereignty, by means of use or occupation, or by any other means.
- Freedom of exploration: All nations have equal rights to explore and use outer space and celestial bodies.
- Peaceful purposes: Activities in outer space must be carried out in accordance with international law, including the Charter of the United Nations, in the interest of maintaining international peace and security and promoting international co-operation and understanding.
Therefore, despite various countries undertaking lunar missions and expressing interest in lunar resources, no single nation can legally claim ownership or control over the Moon. All activities on the Moon must adhere to the principles outlined in the Outer Space Treaty.
