Fox News Host Jesse Watters Faces Backlash for Claim That the U.S. “Owns the Moon”
By: Ebenezer Adu-Gyamfi | Accra, Ghana. for GhanaianNewsCanada 24/1/2026
A well-known American television personality, Jesse Watters, is under fire after making a controversial statement on live television claiming that the United States “owns the moon.” The remark, made during a recent broadcast on Fox News, has sparked widespread ridicule and criticism online and from scientific commentators.
During the segment, Watters argued that the U.S. has legal ownership of the moon, saying, “We own the moon. We literally own the moon.” His comments appeared to reflect confusion over space law and international treaties, drawing swift pushback from experts who noted that no country has sovereignty over the moon.
What International Law Says
Under the 1967 Outer Space Treaty, which has been signed and ratified by more than 100 countries including the United States, no nation can claim ownership of the moon or other celestial bodies. The treaty was established to ensure that space remains free for peaceful exploration and use by all countries. Experts pointed out that Watters’ claim directly contradicts these established legal frameworks.
Reaction and Backlash
Following the broadcast, social media users and critics quickly responded, blending humor with sharp criticism. Many took to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to mock the assertion, with some comparing Watters’ claim to comic-book science fiction rather than serious legal fact. Others expressed concern that major news outlets could allow such misinformation to be presented without correction.
Some science communicators used the moment as an opportunity to educate the public about space law, tweeting reminders about the Outer Space Treaty and explaining that exploration rights do not equate to national ownership.
Fox News Response
At the time of publication, Fox News had not publicly corrected or clarified Watters’ statement. The network has faced previous criticism for controversial commentary from its hosts but remains a major player in American cable news.
Context and Broader Discussion
The episode comes amid renewed global interest in space exploration. The United States, along with other countries such as China and European Union members, are actively planning missions to the moon and Mars in the coming decade. There are ongoing discussions among governments, scientists and private companies about the legal rules governing resource use on celestial bodies, but so far, no country holds formal ownership of any part of space or the moon’s surface.
Analysts say that while Watters’ claim may have been intended to underscore American leadership in space exploration, its lack of legal basis highlights the importance of responsible, fact-checked commentary especially on science and international law.
