Synopsis
Nine miniature satellites created by Israeli high school students were successfully launched into space, marking a significant achievement by the Israel Space Agency. This initiative aims to inspire future generations in science and technology.Key Takeaways
- Largest constellation of satellites designed by students.
- Launch conducted by SpaceX from California.
- Includes the first-ever Druze satellite.
- Part of the Tevel 2 project with a budget of 10.5 million shekels.
- Focus on measuring cosmic radiation effects.
New Delhi, March 16 (NationPress) Nine miniature satellites, created by high school students from Israel, have been successfully launched into space, as announced by the Israel Space Agency (ISA).
The ISA described this achievement as "the largest constellation of Israeli satellites constructed by students from nine municipalities," sharing the news on the social media platform X. The satellites were deployed aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, launched from California's Vandenberg Space Force Base.
As reported by SpaceX, the launch took place at 8:43 a.m. local time, according to Xinhua news agency.
The constellation includes the first-ever Druze satellite, developed by students from the Druze community, which was placed into orbit approximately 500 km above Earth. These satellites are planned to operate for around three years, focusing on measuring cosmic radiation and its impact on electronic components, as stated by the ISA in an additional release on its website.
This satellite development was part of the Tevel 2 national project, facilitated by the ISA and Tel Aviv University, with a budget of 10.5 million shekels (around 2.88 million dollars).
The initiative aims to connect diverse Israeli communities and foster equal opportunities in science and technology education, as noted in the statement.
The Innovation, Science, and Technology Ministry, alongside Tel Aviv University and nine local authorities, initiated the Tevel 2 project with a total budget of NIS 10.5 million.
This project involves establishing satellite communication stations, enabling students to monitor mission data and manage operations effectively.
Uri Oron, the director of the ISA, remarked, "We are witnessing a successful blend of scientific excellence, technological education, and societal integration." He further emphasized that the Tevel 2 project exemplifies the strength of Israeli innovation.
Oron stated, "These satellites will not only deliver vital scientific data but will also inspire the upcoming generation of Israeli space scientists."
Designed for operation over a span of about three years, the project seeks to motivate Israel's future engineers and scientists in the field of space.
