Israeli High School Students Launch Nine Satellites into Space with Tevel 2 Project

In a groundbreaking achievement, nine miniature satellites developed by Israeli high school students were successfully launched into space on Saturday evening as part of the Tevel 2 project. The launch, which took place aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from California’s US Space Force Base, marked a major milestone for Israeli youth in space technology. The satellites, now in low Earth orbit approximately 500 km above Earth, were designed and built by students from across Israel, showcasing the country's strength in innovation and education.

One of the satellites, developed by Druze students, stands out as the first of its kind, symbolizing not only technological achievement but also societal integration. The launch coincided with a delegation of Syrian Druze sheikhs visiting Israel, adding a layer of cultural significance to the event.

The Tevel 2 project, funded with a budget of NIS 10.5 million, was initiated by Israel’s Innovation, Science, and Technology Ministry in collaboration with Tel Aviv University and nine local authorities. The project includes the establishment of satellite communication stations that will allow students to monitor the data and oversee the satellite operations in real-time.

Brig.-Gen. (res.) Uri Oron, director of the Israel Space Agency, described the project as a step forward in both science and education. He emphasized that the Tevel 2 project combines scientific excellence, technological education, and social integration. "These satellites will not only provide vital scientific data but also inspire the next generation of Israeli space scientists," said Oron.

In addition to their research mission, which includes measuring cosmic radiation and its effects on satellite electronics, the satellites carry a commemorative mission. They will transmit telemetry signals with the names of those who fell during the Israel-Hamas conflict on October 7, in remembrance of their sacrifice. This data will be displayed on the Israel Space Agency's website.

Prof. Meir Ariel, head of the Center for Space Engineering at Tel Aviv University, outlined the importance of the research objectives. “The satellite constellation is designed to measure cosmic radiation in orbit, which poses significant risks to astronauts and electronic systems in space,” he explained.

Israeli Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology Gila Gamliel praised the Tevel 2 project as a pinnacle of Israeli innovation. She also highlighted the unique role of youth from all sectors of Israeli society in making this achievement possible. “What these talented students have accomplished is extraordinary. I am particularly proud of the first-ever Druze satellite and the heartfelt tribute to the fallen heroes,” Gamliel said.

The satellites are expected to operate for about three years, marking a significant contribution to scientific exploration and technology while empowering Israeli youth to become the next generation of engineers and space scientists.