Israel launches largest student-built satellite network

(JNS) - In a groundbreaking achievement for Israel's space program, a constellation of nine research nanosatellites-built entirely by high school students-was launched into space from Cape Canaveral in Florida aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.

Dubbed Tevel 2, this project marks the largest Israeli satellite constellation ever deployed, the Tel Aviv University Spokesperson's Department said on Sunday.

Gila Gamliel, Israel's Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, hailed the launch as a testament to Israeli ingenuity and education.

"The Tevel 2 project symbolizes the pinnacle of Israeli innovation, combined with scientific and technological education," Gamliel said. "This is an especially emotional moment for me-to see young people from all sectors of Israeli society working together, transforming a dream into reality, and making history in space."

The nanosatellites, each measuring 10×10×11.3 cm. (3.94×3.94×4.45 inches), were designed and built under the guidance of Tel Aviv University's Faculty of Engineering in collaboration with nine municipalities. The initiative, funded by the Israel Space Agency, aims to foster scientific education while advancing space research.

A fusion of science and education

Brig. Gen. (res.) Uri Oron, director general of the Israel Space Agency, emphasized the project's broad impact.

"The Tevel 2 project is a testament to the power of Israeli innovation. We see here a winning combination of scientific excellence, technological education and societal integration," he said. "These satellites will not only provide crucial scientific data; they will also serve as an inspiration for the next generation of Israeli space scientists."

The initiative engaged students from five Jewish municipalities (Yeruham, the Sha'ar HaNegev Regional Council, Ma'ale Adumim, Givat Shmuel and Herzliya), three Arab municipalities (Ein Mahil, Tayibe and Kafr Qara) and one Druze municipality (Yarka), fostering collaboration across diverse communities.

Professor Meir Ariel, head of the Space Engineering Center at Tel Aviv University, explained the mission's scientific objectives.

"The satellite constellation is designed to measure cosmic radiation in orbit. Cosmic radiation consists of high-energy particles, mainly protons, originating from the Sun and deep-space events like supernova explosions," he said. "This data will help us better understand radiation's impact on both astronauts and electronic systems in space."

The nanosatellites will eventually disperse in low Earth orbit at an altitude of approximately 500 kilometers (310 miles), forming a high-resolution map of cosmic radiation exposure above the planet. In addition, researchers from Tel Aviv University and the Soreq Nuclear Research Center will analyze the impact of radiation on satellite electronics.

A mission of remembrance

Beyond its scientific goals, the Tevel 2 project carries a profound commemorative mission. The satellite launched from Sha'ar HaNegev will continuously transmit the names of all Israeli civilians and soldiers killed by terrorists between Oct. 7, 2023, and December 2024. This tribute will be displayed on the Israel Space Agency's website for the duration of the satellite's mission.

The Sha'ar HaNegev region suffered immense losses during the Oct. 7 attack, including the death of its mayor, Ophir Libstein, who was killed while defending his community. Many students who contributed to the satellite project had been evacuated from their homes due to the conflict.

"This mission is deeply moving," said Gamliel. "It is a lasting tribute to those we lost and a symbol of resilience for the future."

The satellites are expected to remain in orbit for approximately three years, generating valuable scientific data while inspiring Israel's next generation of space pioneers.