View source for Israel Space Agency

{{Short description|Government space agency of Israel}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=April 2014}}
{{Infobox space agency
| name          = Israel Space Agency
| native_name   = {{lang|he|סוכנות החלל הישראלית}}
| seal          =
| seal_size     =
| seal_cap      =
| image         = File:Israel_Space_Agency_logo.png
| size          = 200
| caption       =
| acronym       = ISA
| owner         = {{flag|Israel}}
| established   = {{start date and age|1983}}
| preceding1    = [[National Committee for Space Research]]<ref name=ISA1>{{cite web|title=Israel's man on space|url=http://mfa.gov.il/MFA/InnovativeIsrael/Pages/Israel_space_11-Aug-2010.aspx|publisher=[[Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs]]|access-date=19 November 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150610195951/http://mfa.gov.il/MFA/InnovativeIsrael/Pages/Israel_space_11-Aug-2010.aspx|archive-date=June 10, 2015|df=mdy-all}}</ref> (1960–1983)
| headquarters  = [[Tel Aviv]], Israel
| employees     =
| spaceport     = [[Palmachim Airbase]]
| motto         =
| administrator = [[Dan Blumberg]], Chairperson<br />{{ill|Uri Oron|he|אורי אורון}} (since 2021)<ref name=oron>{{Cite web |url=https://www.space.gov.il/en/news-space/132524 |title="Uri Oron selected as director general of the Israel Space Agency" |access-date=February 5, 2022 |archive-date=February 5, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220205082237/https://www.space.gov.il/en/news-space/132524 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Director General
| budget        = [[Israeli new shekel|₪]]51.063 million<br />US$14.5 million (2019)<ref name="budget">{{cite web|title=Space program budget (In Hebrew)|url=https://next.obudget.org/i/budget/0019400211/2019|access-date= 7 May 2020}}</ref>
| language      =
| URL           = [http://space.gov.il/en space.gov.il]
}}

The '''Israel Space Agency''' ('''ISA'''; {{langx|he|סוכנות החלל הישראלית}},  ''Sokhnut heKhalal haYisraelit'') is a governmental body, a part of [[Israel]]'s [[Ministry of Science and Technology (Israel)|Ministry of Science and Technology]], that coordinates all Israeli space research programs with scientific and commercial goals.

The agency was founded by the [[theoretical physicist]] [[Yuval Ne'eman]] in 1983 to replace the [[National Committee for Space Research]], which had established in 1960 to set up the initial infrastructure required for space missions.<ref name=AboutISA>{{cite web|title=Israel Celebrates Space|url=http://most.gov.il/SLH/Documents/ISRAEL%20CELEBRATES%20SPACE%20final.pdf|publisher=Israel Space Agency|access-date=19 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303180717/http://most.gov.il/SLH/Documents/ISRAEL%20CELEBRATES%20SPACE%20final.pdf|archive-date=March 3, 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> The agency is currently headed by Chairperson [[Dan Blumberg ]]<ref name=AboutISA /> and Director General {{ill|Uri Oron|he|אורי אורון}}.<ref name=oron/> Today, Israel is the smallest country with indigenous launch capabilities, as well as the smallest to have a [[space agency]].

== History ==
Space research in Israel has history dating to the late 1950s.

===NCSR and foreign reliance===
{{Main|National Committee for Space Research}}

The Israeli Space Agency originated as a university-based research project from [[Tel Aviv University]] in the early 1960s.<ref name=ISA2>{{cite web|title=Israel Space Agency: Current and Future Programs|url=http://mfa.gov.il/MFA_Graphics/MFA%20Gallery/Israel60/ch7-6.pdf|work=From Modest Beginnings to a Vibrant State|publisher=RESOURCEs: Israel Space Agency|access-date=19 November 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140201234404/http://mfa.gov.il/MFA_Graphics/MFA%20Gallery/Israel60/ch7-6.pdf|archive-date=February 1, 2014|df=mdy-all}}</ref> In 1960, the [[National Committee for Space Research]] (NCSR) was formed by the [[Israel Academy of Sciences and Humanities]]. The committee was formed to increase research activities across the academic communities in Israel. While at the time establishing a space program was not particularly one of its goals, during the 1960s through the late 1970s, the committee developed the [[infrastructure]] needed for research and development in [[space]] exploration and sciences. One of the NCSR's earliest achievements took place in 1961 with the launch of its first two-stage rocket.<ref name="moderndef">{{cite book|title=Space: The Frontiers of Modern Defence|publisher=KnowledgeWorld|isbn=9788187966449 |pages=155–165|author=Kiran Krishan Nair|year=2006}}</ref>

Following political tension with Egypt and Syria, reconnaissance flights became evermore difficult. In 1979, a satellite program was proposed followed by a year of feasibility study. The study was completed by late 1980; [[Yehoshua Saguy|Saguy]] requested from prime minister [[Menachem Begin]] that the project proceed to its next phase. In 1982, a new recommendation called "Ofeq Program" was submitted for developing an observation satellite. The program included timelines, planning for a ground station, budget estimates, and personnel requirements. The primary goal was to develop a satellite program without relying on any foreign know-how, to allow flexibility and creativity.<ref name="moderndef" /> The launcher would be developed by Malam, the two engines by the Israel Military Industries (IMI), and the third by Rafael.

=== Establishment of a space agency ===
At the end of 1982 it was decided during a closed-door meeting to establish an Israeli space agency. The decision was made by PM [[Menachem Begin]], Defense minister [[Ariel Sharon]], and former director Aharon Beit Halahmi. The initial goal was to pursue the program to develop to Ofeq and the Shavit launchers.<ref name="moderndef" /> In January 1983, the Israeli government authorized the Minister of Science and Technology<ref name="moderndef" /><ref name=CIA-2001>{{citation |url= https://www.cia.gov/library/center-for-the-study-of-intelligence/csi-publications/csi-studies/studies/winter_spring01/article04.pdf |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070613113528/https://www.cia.gov/library/center-for-the-study-of-intelligence/csi-publications/csi-studies/studies/winter_spring01/article04.pdf |url-status= dead |archive-date= June 13, 2007 |title=Israel's Quest for Satellite Intelligence |author=E. L. Zorn |journal= Studies in Intelligence |date=Winter–Spring 2001 |issue=10 |pages= 33–38 |access-date= 2009-09-11}}</ref> [[Yuval Ne'eman]] to establish an Israeli Space Agency with the goal of advancing Israel's space program, unlike the NCSR which was primarily used for feasibility and infrastructure studies. In July 1983, the ISA was officially founded in [[Tel Aviv]] to coordinate the nation's space program in affiliation to the [[Culture and Sport Ministry|Ministry of Science, Culture & Sport]], and [[Dror Sadeh]] was nominated to be its Director-General.

In 1982, the Israel Space Agency was created, which is responsible for coordinating the space program of Israel. The following year, the new head of military intelligence, [[Ehud Barak]], suspended all work, and advocated the winding down of all projects, and planned to transfer the released financial resources to fulfill more priority tasks, he said. But his opinion did not become dominant in the defense department, and in 1984, Defense Minister [[Moshe Arens]] insisted on resuming the program.

In 1984 the National Space Knowledge Center was established in cooperation with [[Israel Aircraft Industries]]; a contract was signed between [[Israel Aircraft Industries|IAI]] and Ministry of Defence for the development of the needed infrastructure and of Israel's first observation [[satellite]]. This came to fruition in 1988 when Israel launched the first in a series of ''[[Ofeq]]'' satellites and thus became one of only a few nations in the world possessing an indigenous space launching capability (''see'' [[timeline of first orbital launches by country]]). The project management at [[Israel Aircraft Industries]] was headed for many years by Moshe Bar-Lev.

== Vision ==
The agency vision as defined by the guiding committee on July 27, 2005, states:

"Space research and exploration is an essential instrument for the defense of life on [[Earth]]; the lever for technological progress; the key to existing in a modern society; essential for developing an economy based on knowledge; and the central attraction for scientific and qualified human resources."

The vision is "to preserve and broaden the comparative advantage of Israel and to place it among the group of leading countries in the space research and exploration area."

The main goals for vision realization are:
* To build and to support [[satellite]] systems for space research and for [[Earth]] research from [[space]].
* To develop technologies, knowledge and scientific infrastructure (including laboratories and human resources) required for space research.
* To promote international cooperation in space research and [[space exploration|exploration]], and for strengthening the national interests of Israel.
* To promote ties between Israeli [[society]], space research, and [[space exploration|exploration]].

ISA has signed cooperation agreements with the [[List of space agencies|space agencies]] of: United States ([[NASA]]), France ([[CNES]]), Canada ([[Canadian Space Agency|CSA]]), India ([[ISRO]]),  Italy ([[Italian Space Agency|ASI]]),  Germany ([[German Aerospace Center|DLR]]), [[Ukraine]] ([[NSAU]]), Russia ([[RKA]]), Netherlands ([[Netherlands Agency for Aerospace Programmes|NIVR]]) and [[Brazil]] ([[Brazilian Space Agency|AEB]]).

== Budget ==
In 2010, the budget of the Israel Space Agency was increased to [[United States dollar|US $]]80 million<ref name=ISA1 /> to boost the agency's space activities in research and development. The budget does not include launch vehicle development and most satellite programs. Typically such programs get funded on a project-by-project basis. For example, [[VENμS|Project Venus]], a cooperative program by Israel (ISA) and France ([[CNES]]) which is set to launch in 2014 has a $50 million budget.{{update inline|date=July 2016}}<ref name=ISASpaceNews>{{cite web|last=Opall-Rome|first=Barbara|title=Zvi Kaplan, Director, Israel Space Agency|date=September 6, 2011|url=http://www.spacenews.com/article/zvi-kaplan-director-israel-space-agency|publisher=SpaceNews|access-date=19 November 2013}}</ref> The Spaceborne Hyperspectral Applicative Land and Ocean Mission ([[SHALOM (satellite)|SHALOM]]), a joint mission by Israel (ISA) and the [[Italy Space Agency]] ([[Italian Space Agency|ASI]]) has a budget of $116 million.<ref name=ISA1 />

The budget allocated annually for the Israeli military program as well as commercial programs are managed on different budgets.

==Satellite programs==

The Israel Space Agency has had a long history of satellite programs both for reconnaissance and commercial purposes. Its first satellite, the [[Ofeq]]-1 was launched on September 19, 1988, from [[Palmachim Airbase]] in Israel. Since the launching of that first satellite, Israel has developed into a significant player in the commercial space arena. Today, the ISA satellite launches include:
* [[Ofeq]] – Series of [[reconnaissance satellites]]. The first of these was launched from the [[Palmachim]] site on September 19, 1988.
* [[AMOS (satellite)|AMOS]] – Series of [[communications satellites]]
* [[EROS (satellite)|Eros]] – Series of [[Earth observation satellite|observation satellites]]
* Techsat – Researching satellite launched by the [[Technion]]
* [[TechSAR]] – a [[Synthetic aperture radar|SAR]]-based observation satellite.

===Ofeq satellite series===
[[File:Ofeq-3.gif|thumb|Ofeq-3]]
{{Main|Ofeq}}
After the successful launch of the [[Ofeq]]-1 in 1988, additional satellites were developed. In 1989, the ISA launched the [[Ofeq]]-2; in April 1995, it took a leap forward with the launch of [[Ofek 3|Ofeq-3]], which carried an advanced electro-optical payload built by Israeli industry for local purposes. Ofeq-3 has been functioning without a hitch. Following a setback with [[Ofek 4|Ofeq-4]], [[Ofek-5|Ofeq-5]] was successfully launched in May 2002.

To date, twelve such satellites in the [[Ofeq]] [[reconnaissance satellites]] series were developed and launched to [[Low Earth Orbit]]. The most recent, Ofek 16, was launched July 6, 2020.<ref>{{cite web|title=i24 News|website = [[YouTube]]| date=July 6, 2020 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=2&v=r7ILeKuSDC4&feature=emb_title}}</ref>

===AMOS satellite series===
{{Main|AMOS (satellite)}}
The AMOS is a series of communications satellites. The AMOS satellites are by the [[Israel Aerospace Industries]] and are operated by [[Spacecom]] once in orbit. The [[AMOS-1]], the first satellite in the series, was launched on May 16, 1996, using a French-built vehicle. Since then, 4 more satellites were launched. The most recent AMOS satellite is the [[AMOS-5]] which was launched on December 11, 2011.<ref>{{cite news|title = AMOS 5 satellite launched into space|newspaper = Ynetnews|date = December 11, 2011|url = http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4159943,00.html|last1 = Magnezi|first1 = Aviel}}</ref>

The AMOS is distinguished for its light weight and sophisticated technology. The [[AMOS-6]] was due to be launched in 2016 in order to replace the [[AMOS-2]] which was then ceasing operation, but it was destroyed in a launchpad explosion.<ref>{{cite web|title=Launchpad explosion destroys SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket|website=[[Space.com]]|date=September 2016|url=https://www.space.com/33929-spacex-falcon-9-rocket-explodes-on-launch-pad.html}}</ref>

===EROS satellite series===
[[File:EROS-B Satellite.png|thumb|The [[EROS (satellite)|EROS-B Satellite]]]]
{{Main|EROS (satellite)}}
The Earth Resources Observation Satellite (EROS) is a series of commercial [[Earth observation satellite|observation satellites]]. The first satellite, the [[EROS A]], was launched on December 5, 2000, from [[Svobodny (launch site)|Svobodny Launch Complex]] using a Russian [[Start-1]]. A second satellite, the [[EROS B]], was launched on April 25, 2006.

The EROS series are set to be launched once every 6 to 8 years. The [[EROS C]] is set to be launched in late 2014.{{update inline|date=July 2016}}

===TechSAR Satellite===
{{Main|TechSAR}}

The TechSAR satellite is a reconnaissance satellite equipped with a synthetic aperture radar. The satellite is designed penetrate thick clouds by being fitted with a large dish-like antenna to transmit and receive radar signals. The satellite was successfully launched on January 21, 2008.

==Launch capabilities==
[[File:Shavit rakete.gif|thumb|left|baseline|100px|[[Shavit 2|Shavit]] Rocket]]
[[Image:Shavit Ofek7a.jpg|thumb|250px|[[Shavit 2|Shavit]] launcher]]
{{Main|Shavit 2}}
The Israel Space Agency is one of only seven countries that both build their own satellites and launch their own launchers.{{Dubious|date=December 2024}} The [[Shavit 2|Shavit]] is a [[space]] [[launch vehicle]] capable of sending payload into [[low Earth orbit]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Space launch systems - Shavit|url=http://www.deagel.com/Space-Launch-Systems/Shavit_a001901001.aspx|publisher=Deagel|access-date=19 November 2013}}</ref> The Shavit launcher has been used to send every Ofeq satellite to date.

The development of the Shavit began in 1983 and its operational capabilities were proven on three successful launches of the Ofek satellites on September 19, 1988; April 3, 1990; and April 5, 1995. The Shavit launchers allows low-cost and high-reliability launch of micro/mini satellites to a [[low Earth orbit]]. The Shavit launcher is developed by Malam factory, one of four factories in the IAI Electronics Group. The factory is very experienced in development, assembling, testing and operating system for use in space.

The Shavit is a [[Multistage rocket|triple-stage launcher]] [[solid propellant]] [[booster (rocketry)|booster]] based on the 2-stage [[Jericho (missile)|Jericho-II]] [[ballistic missile]]. The first and second stage engines are manufactured by Ta'as, and use solid fuel.<ref name=BRIT1 /> The third stage engines are manufactured by [[Rafael Advanced Defense Systems]]. The next generation Shavit rockets, now called the Shavit-2 are being developed. The Shavit-2 is said to be made available for commercial launches in the near future.

===Palmachim Spaceport===
The Israel Space Agency and the [[Israeli Air Force|Israeli Air Force (IAF)]] jointly operate the [[spaceport]] located south of [[Palmachim Airbase]]. The IAF with its 151 Squadron for missile testing uses it to test its [[Jericho (missile)|Jericho]] and [[Arrow (missile family)|Arrow]] missiles.

Due to Israel's geographic location and [[Arab–Israeli conflict|hostile relations]] with surrounding countries, launches take off due west, over the [[Mediterranean Sea]]. This is done in order to avoid flying over hostile territories.<ref name=BRIT1>{{Citation | url = http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/1376231/Shavit | contribution = Shavit | title = Britannica}}</ref> This is also to prevent possible debris from falling above populated areas. This limitation imposes a penalty of roughly 30% on its lifting capabilities.

Some of the recent ISA launches include:
* June 11, 2007 – [[Ofek-7|Ofeq 7]] satellite<ref>[http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Israel_Launches_New_Spy_Satellite_999.html Israel Launches New Spy Satellite], www.spacewar.com, accessed 12 June 2007</ref>
* June 22, 2010 – [[Ofeq-9|Ofeq 9]] satellite<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?i=4681651&c=MID&s=AIR |title=Israel Launches Ofeq-9 Satellite |access-date=November 20, 2013 |archive-date=September 7, 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120907071249/http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?i=4681651&c=MID&s=AIR |url-status=dead }}</ref>
* April 10, 2014 – [[Ofek-10|Ofeq 10]] satellite<ref>{{cite web|last=Berger|first=Brian|title=Israeli Rocket Launches Radar Reconnaissance Satellite|url=http://www.spacenews.com/article/military-space/40170israeli-rocket-launches-radar-reconnaissance-satellite|archive-url=https://archive.today/20140410193226/http://www.spacenews.com/article/military-space/40170israeli-rocket-launches-radar-reconnaissance-satellite|url-status=dead|archive-date=April 10, 2014|publisher=Space NEws|access-date=10 April 2014|date=April 10, 2014}}</ref>
* September 13, 2016 – [[Ofek-11|Ofeq 11]] satellite<ref name="Ofek11">{{cite web|url=http://spaceflight101.com/israel-launches-advanced-optical-reconnaissance-satellite/|title=Israel Launches Advanced Optical Reconnaissance Satellite|publisher=Spaceflight 101|date=13 September 2016|access-date=13 September 2016|archive-date=June 8, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170608171706/http://spaceflight101.com/israel-launches-advanced-optical-reconnaissance-satellite/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
* July 6, 2020 – [[Ofek-16|Ofeq 16]] satellite<ref name="Ofek16">{{cite web|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/07/ofek-16-israel-launches-spy-satellite-200706083508981.html|title=Israel launches new spy satellite}}</ref>

==Space research==
The ISA is responsible for funding a large set of university research projects and governmental projects. The goal is to boost space related research and development in the academic arena. The Israel Space Agency strives to promote space research and space technology development as a part of the effort to promote the Israeli scientific research.

===National Knowledge Center on NEOs===
[[Image:WiseC18Telescope.JPG|right|300px|thumb|The smaller 46cm [[Telescope]] in the [[Wise Observatory]] dome.]]
The ISA and the Ministry of Science and Technology formed and operated the National Knowledge Center on Near Earth Objects at [[Tel Aviv University]] in order to study minor bodies in the [[Solar System]]. The goal is to map the objects which pose a threat to Earth and to find a solution to eliminate them.

This center is headed by Dr. [[Noah Brosch]] from [[Tel Aviv University]] and operates the three telescopes of the [[Wise Observatory]]. For the purpose of NEO studies, a special wide-field 0.46-m telescope was acquired by [[Tel Aviv University]] and is operating at the [[Wise Observatory]] located near [[Mitzpe Ramon]]. The telescope facilitated the discovery of several tens of new asteroids and is now intensely used to study asteroid rotation and asteroid pair properties. Following the cessation of funding from ISA, the [[asteroid]] studies are continuing at the [[Wise Observatory]] with no specific financial support.

===Israel Cosmic Ray Center===
The Israel Cosmic Ray Center (ICRC) was established in November 1997 with support from the Israel Space Agency and with affiliation to [[Tel Aviv University]] and the [[Technion]]. The center is located on [[Mount Hermon]] and headed by Gideon Bela and Lev Dorman from the Tel Aviv University.<ref>{{cite web|title=ICRC|url=http://www.tau.ac.il/institutes/advanced/cosmic/|publisher=Israel Cosmic Ray and Space Weather Center|access-date=19 November 2013}}</ref>

The goal of the center is to monitor and forecast dangerous meteorological and space phenomena. This includes solar radiation storms and shockwaves between very powerful stars creating magnetic storms. These phenomena can endanger electronic systems in satellites and space shuttles, the astronauts' health, electronic and navigational systems in aircraft flying in extremely high altitudes and ground power systems.

The Emilio Segre' Observatory (ESOI) is a [[Cosmic-ray observatory|cosmic radiation observatory]] prepared via a joint collaboration with Italy. It was transported to [[Mount Hermon]], Israel in June 1998. The observatory was named after the Italian [[physicist]] and [[Nobel laureate]] [[Emilio G. Segrè]].<ref>{{cite web|title=ESOI|url=http://www.tau.ac.il/institutes/advanced/cosmic/esoi.html|publisher=Emilio Segre' Israel-Italy Observatory|access-date=19 November 2013}}</ref>

===EOSDIS ISA-MEIDA===
The Israel Space Agency - Middle East Interactive Data Archive (ISA-MEIDA) is an Israeli node for [[NASA]]'s [[EOSDIS]] (Earth Observing System Data and Information System). The Node was established in October 1996 as a part of the cooperation agreement between the director of NASA and the director of ISA. It is the only team in the country which focuses on collecting and preserving environmental information in Israel. The ISA-MEIDA was established in order to create and maintain an Earth observing data center available through the Internet to the research community and to the general public free of charge.<ref>{{cite web|title=ISA-MEIDA Welcome|url=http://nasa.proj.ac.il/|publisher=ISA-MEIDA|access-date=19 November 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130927104842/http://nasa.proj.ac.il/|archive-date=September 27, 2013|df=mdy-all}}</ref>

This research, headed by Pinhas Alpert, is funded by the ISA as a part of the Space Scientific and Technological Infrastructure Development program. The node is integrated with NASA's Global Information System which includes Earth Observing Science Data and Information System. It also contains Remote Sensing Data from NASA and NOAA satellites, and data from other sources such as meteorological RADAR and readings from meteorological stations. Information collected by the system is critical for environmental and water related research, especially in light of the drastic global environmental changes and global warming.<ref>{{cite web|title=he Regional Center for NASA EOSDIS|url=http://nasa.proj.ac.il/about.html|publisher=ISA-MEIDA|access-date=19 November 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130928100304/http://nasa.proj.ac.il/about.html|archive-date=September 28, 2013|df=mdy-all}}</ref>

===Tel Aviv University Ultraviolet Explorer===
{{Main|TAUVEX}}
The Tel Aviv University Ultraviolet Explorer (TAUVEX) is a space telescope array conceived by [[Noah Brosch]] of [[Tel Aviv University]]. It was eventually designed and constructed for the university by El-Op. TAUVEX is a cluster of three bore-sighted  20-cm telescopes for observation in the ultra-violet funded by the Israel Space Agency. It was due to be launched by India on board the ISRO satellite [[GSAT-4]] satellite but due to a mis-match between the capabilities of the launched and the mass of the satellite, ISRO decided unilaterally to remove TAUVEX from GSAT-4. The telescope ended up in a limbo of constant delays. In 2012 ISA decided to terminate the TAUVEX project.

===TechSat-Gurwin Microsatellite===
{{Main|Asher_Space_Research_Institute#Gurwin_TechSat|l1=TechSat-Gurwin}}
The Gurwin TechSat was one of the world's first Microsatellites to be designed, built and launched by students.<ref>{{cite web|title=O(R)bituary |url=http://www.focus.technion.ac.il/May10/newsStory11.htm |publisher=TECHNION FOCUS MAGAZINE |access-date=19 November 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130929095838/http://www.focus.technion.ac.il/May10/newsStory11.htm |archive-date=September 29, 2013 }}</ref> The satellite, developed by the [[Technion]], was launched on July 10, 1998. The satellite was a great success, operating for over 11 years - setting a world record for the longest university satellite mission. The mission was completed in April 2010.

===Sloshsat-FLEVO===
{{Main|Sloshsat-FLEVO}}
The Sloshsat-FLEVO was a satellite launched for the study of [[Slosh dynamics|liquid sloshing]] phenomena in space. The satellite was developed in collaboration between the [[Royal Netherlands Aerospace Centre|Dutch NLR labs]], [[Fokker Space]], and [[Rafael Advanced Defense Systems|Rafael]]. The satellite is helped by the Israel Space Agency and the [[European Space Agency]] (ESA). The Israel Space Agency initiated the project and partly funded it by supplying the sub-propulsion system.<ref>{{cite web|title=SLOSHSAT|url=http://most.gov.il/English/space/projects/Pages/SLOSHSAT.aspx|publisher=Israel Space Agency|access-date=19 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140131091104/http://most.gov.il/English/space/projects/Pages/SLOSHSAT.aspx|archive-date=January 31, 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref>

The propulsion system, funded by the ISA, is fueled by cold gas and is constructed of four high-pressure canisters with pyrotechnic activation. The system can produce both linear acceleration and torque needed to perform slosh research. It is specifically designed to overcome the severe volume constraints encountered in typical satellites.

==Ongoing development==
The Israel Space Agency is currently involved with multiple satellites, space telescopes, and microsatellites.

===VENμS===
{{main|VENμS}}
The Vegetation and Environment monitoring on a New Micro-Satellite (VENμS) is a satellite to be used for Earth observation using a superspectral sensor, dedicated to vegetation monitoring. It is the first cooperation between Israel (ISA) and France ([[CNES]]). [[VENμS]] scientific objective is "the provision of data for scientific studies dealing with the monitoring, analysis, and modeling of land surface functioning under the influences of environmental factors as well as human activities."<ref name=venus>{{cite web|title=VENUS|url=http://smsc.cnes.fr/VENUS/|access-date=19 November 2013}}</ref>

The Israel Space Agency is responsible for the spacecraft, the launcher interface, and for the satellite control center. The [[Centre national d'études spatiales]] is responsible for supplying the superspectral camera and the science mission center.<ref name=venus /> The satellite was launched in August 2017.

At [[World Space Week]] in Dubai, in October 2021, Israel and the UAE ministers of science and technology announced plans for cooperation on the mission.  They plan to examine phenomena related to Earth resources, precision agriculture, desertification, and monitoring of bodies of water, and climate change– issues common both to Israel and the Emirates.<ref name=":0" />

===OPsat===
OPsat is a next generation high resolution optical observation satellite for reconnaissance purposes. It is designed to be a {{convert|300|kg|lbs}} satellite capable of detecting objects of about 50 centimeters in diameter. It will be equipped with a camera with [[Charge-coupled device|CCD]]/[[Time delay and integration|TDI]] sensors, producing both panchromatic imagery at a very high resolution and multispectral imagery at a medium resolution. The satellite is set to orbit in a [[Sun-synchronous orbit]]. It is expected to have a lifespan of roughly 10 years.

===ULTRASAT===
{{Main|ULTRASAT}}
The ULTRASAT satellite is a wide field (~1000 deg<sup>2</sup>) transient explorer [[space telescope]] mission. ULTRASAT is planned to have eight telescopes equipped with CCD cameras and reflective filters. It is set to have a sensitivity 10 times lower than [[GALEX]] but a field of view more than 1000 times larger. It is also planned to have a detection rate for transient in the UV of more than 30 times greater than that of GALEX. The ULTRASAT is planned to be developed in just 3–4 years and relatively low cost.<ref>{{cite book|title=LIMSAT-UV: A Wide Field UV Transient Explorer Satellite Mission|publisher=Weizmann Institute Of Science|url=http://uvastro2012.colorado.edu/Posters/Sagiv_poster.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809050428/https://uvastro2012.colorado.edu/Posters/Sagiv_poster.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-date=2020-08-09}}</ref> ULTRASAT will observe a large patch of sky, more than 200 square degrees, alternating every six months between the southern and northern hemisphere. The satellite will orbit the Earth from an altitude of about 300&nbsp;km above the geosynchronous orbit, getting a ‘ride’ as a secondary payload in the fairing of the rocket carrying a communications satellite.  A joint American-Israeli proposal for this project was submitted to NASA by a team from Caltech/JPL ([[Jet Propulsion Laboratory]]), the [[Weizmann Institute of Science]] and [[Israel Aerospace Industries]] (IAI). The Israeli contribution will be funded by the Israel Space Agency<ref>[http://space.gov.il/en/node/1129 Israel Space Agency, “ULTRASAT project”]</ref> and the launch is scheduled for early 2026.<ref>{{cite web |last=Foust |first=Jeff |url=https://spacenews.com/nasa-to-cooperate-on-israeli-astrophysics-mission/ |title=NASA to cooperate on Israeli astrophysics mission |work=[[SpaceNews]] |date=22 January 2023 |access-date=23 January 2023}}</ref>

===INSAT-1 and INSAT-2===
The INSAT-1 and the INSAT-2 are two nano-satellites which were planned and developed by the [[Israeli Nano Satellite Association]]. Their purpose was to serve as a technology demonstrators.{{cn|date=February 2023}}

The INSAT-1 was set to carry a miniature atomic clock and a GPS receiver. By 2021, the mission was delayed and they were never launched.{{cn|date=February 2023}}

===SHALOM Project===
{{main|SHALOM (satellite)|l1=SHALOM Project}}
The SHALOM Project (Spaceborne Hyperspectral Applicative Land and Ocean Mission) is a joint project with the [[Italian Space Agency]] (ASI) announced on November 23, 2010.<ref>{{cite web|title=Italy and Israel: all clear for SHALOM|url=http://www.asi.it/en/news_en/italy_and_israel_all_clear_for_shalom|publisher=[[Italian Space Agency]]|access-date=4 April 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203040828/http://www.asi.it/en/news_en/italy_and_israel_all_clear_for_shalom|archive-date=December 3, 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref> The project involves the design and development of two [[hyperspectral]] [[Earth observation]] satellites. They are set to follow the same orbit as the [[COSMO-SkyMed|Cosmo SkyMed]]. It will integrate radar observations with observations in the visible infrared and ultraviolet.<ref>{{cite web|title=Italy and Israel: all clear for SHALOM|url=http://www.asi.it/en/news_en/italy_and_israel_all_clear_for_shalom|publisher=Agenzia Spaziale Italiana|access-date=19 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203040828/http://www.asi.it/en/news_en/italy_and_israel_all_clear_for_shalom|archive-date=December 3, 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref> In October 2015 a memorandum of understanding was signed, and the system is slated to become fully operational in 2021.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://space.gov.il/en/node/1144 |title=The Shalom Mission &#124; Israel Space Agency |publisher=Space.gov.il |date=2014-12-16 |accessdate=2022-05-08}}</ref>{{citation needed|date=March 2021}} The project is expected to cost over $200 million, with the cost being split evenly between the two countries.<ref>{{cite web|title=Israel, Italy To Build Hyperspectral Satellites|url=http://connection.ebscohost.com/c/articles/57540138/israel-italy-build-hyperspectral-satellites|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203015215/http://connection.ebscohost.com/c/articles/57540138/israel-italy-build-hyperspectral-satellites|url-status=dead|archive-date=3 December 2013|access-date=21 November 2013}}</ref>

===SAMSON===
Space Autonomous Mission of Swarming & Geolocating Nano-Satellites (SAMSON) is a project initiated by the [[Technion]]'s [[Asher Space Research Institute]]. SAMSON consists of three nano-satellites in formation flying to demonstrate high precision geo-location of civilian signals from the ground for rescue purposes. SAMSON is planned to implement and demonstrate [[Technion]]-developed formation-flying algorithms using the nano-satellite's propulsion system. This is a student project with technical help from multiple partners in the industry such as [[RAFAEL]].

=== Matroshka AstroRad Radiation Experiment - Artemis 1===
[[File:Two manikins in the passenger seats inside the Artemis I Orion crew module.jpg|thumb|right|The two manikins inside the [[Artemis 1]] [[Orion (spacecraft)|Orion]] crew module]]
The Matroshka AstroRad Radiation Experiment (MARE) is a collaboration between the ISA, [[NASA]], and the [[German Aerospace Center|German Aerospace Center (DLR)]], in cooperation with [[Lockheed Martin]] and [[StemRad]]. MARE will take place aboard the [[Artemis 1]] [[Orion (spacecraft)|Orion Spacecraft]], which is expected to launch from [[Kennedy Space Center]] between 2020 and 2021.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://arstechnica.com/science/2019/07/nasas-large-sls-rocket-unlikely-to-fly-before-at-least-late-2021/|title=NASA's large SLS rocket unlikely to fly before at least late 2021|date=17 July 2019}}</ref> The radiation environment beyond Earth's protective atmosphere is a significant impediment to human space travel. The AstroRad is a protective vest that provides mobile shielding from high energy radiation.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/u-s-israeli-space-agencies-join-forces-to-protect-astronauts-from-radiation-1523969713|title=U.S., Israeli Space Agencies Join Forces to Protect Astronauts From Radiation|last=Pasztor|first=Andy|date=2018-04-17|work=Wall Street Journal|access-date=2018-07-09|language=en-US|issn=0099-9660}}</ref> MARE offers a unique opportunity to measure tissue dose deposition and test the effectiveness of the [[StemRad#Space|AstroRad]] vest when exposed to the harsh radiation beyond [[low Earth orbit]]. The crew compartment of the uncrewed Artemis 1 [[Orion (spacecraft)|Orion spacecraft]] will include two female anthropomorphic [[Imaging phantom|phantoms]] that will be exposed to the intense radiation environment during the spacecraft's lunar orbit. One phantom will be shielded by the [[StemRad#Space|AstroRad]] vest and the other will be left unprotected as a [[Scientific control|control]]. The phantoms, designed by [[German Aerospace Center|DLR]], precisely measure radiation exposure not only at the surface of the body but also at the locations corresponding to sensitive internal organs and tissues in humans.<ref>{{Citation|last=ISPCS .com|title=ISPCS 2017 - Thomas Berger "Exploration Missions and Radiation"|date=2017-11-03|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l25-4XhcneY&t=634s |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/l25-4XhcneY |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|access-date=2018-07-09}}{{cbignore}}</ref>

==Crewed programs==
While the ISA has not yet made a [[human spaceflight]] of its own, since the mid-1990s there has been a cooperation agreement between the Israel Space Agency and NASA which has resulted in one Israeli astronaut on a NASA mission to date.<ref name=AboutISA />

===Ilan Ramon===
[[Image:Ilan Ramon, NASA photo portrait in orange suit.jpg|thumb|[[Ilan Ramon]] - the first Israeli astronaut]]
[[Ilan Ramon]] was Israel's first [[astronaut]]. Ramon was the [[Space Shuttle]] payload specialist on board the fatal [[STS-107]] mission of [[Space Shuttle Columbia|Space Shuttle ''Columbia'']], in which he and the six other crew members were killed in a [[Space Shuttle Columbia disaster|re-entry disaster]] over southern [[Texas]]. Ramon had been selected as a [[Payload Specialist]] in 1997 and trained at the [[Johnson Space Center]], [[Houston, Texas]], from 1998 until 2003, for a mission with a payload that included a [[multispectral]] camera for recording desert [[aerosol]] (dust).<ref>[http://www.jsc.nasa.gov/Bios/PS/ramon.html Payload Specialist Astronaut Bio: Ilan Ramon, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Retrieved 2009-12-05]</ref>

===Others===

In January 2025, Israel announced an agreement with [[NASA]] to send the first Israeli woman astronaut to space. The news was shared by Israeli Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology [[Gila Gamliel]] at the 20th [[Ilan Ramon International Space Conference]]. Almeigner reported that the selection process for the astronaut has begun, and the mission aims to inspire future generations and promote [[gender equality]] in [[Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics|STEM]] fields.<ref name="Algemeiner2025">{{cite web |title=Israel, NASA Reach Agreement to Send First Israeli Female Astronaut to Space |url=https://www.algemeiner.com/2025/01/27/israel-nasa-reach-agreement-send-first-israeli-female-astronaut-space/ |website=The Algemeiner |date=2025-01-27 |access-date=2025-03-06}}</ref>

==Experiments via NASA Space Shuttles==
The ISA has conducted a number of experiments, both crewed and uncrewed, in collaboration with NASA using the Space Shuttle. In October 1996, NASA and ISA signed an agreement for joint cooperation in the peaceful use of space - an agreement designed to develop cooperative programs of mutual interest between the two nations.

===Israeli Space Agency Investigation About Hornets===
{{main|Oriental_hornet#Israeli_Space_Agency_Investigation_About_Hornets|l1=The Hornet Experiment}}
The Israeli Space Agency Investigation About Hornets (ISAIAH) was a project from [[Tel Aviv University]] that was initiated in the early 1990s to explorer the effects of near-zero gravity on [[oriental hornet]]s, their physical and physiological development and their nest-building instincts. The flight hardware and measuring instruments were commissioned by the ISA and built by [[Israel Aerospace Industries|ISI]]. The hope of the mission was to discover ways to prevent astronauts from suffering headaches, nausea, and vomiting during the missions.<ref>{{Cite journal|title=Project ISIAH - Experiment on the effects of micro-gravity on hornets' nest building and activity|journal=Israel Space Research & Technology Information Bulletin |volume=9|page=2|bibcode=1992IsSRT...9....2B|publisher=The Smithsonian/NASA Astrophysics Data System|last1=Brull|first1=Lily|year=1992|issue=5–6 }}</ref>

In 1992, 230 [[Oriental hornet]]s, a flight hardware and measuring instruments were packed onto the [[Space Shuttle Endeavour|Space Shuttle ''Endeavour'']] mission [[STS-47]].<ref>{{cite web|title=STS-47|url=http://science.ksc.nasa.gov/shuttle/missions/sts-47/mission-sts-47.html|publisher=NASA|access-date=20 November 2013|archive-date=August 9, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809080447/http://science.ksc.nasa.gov/shuttle/missions/sts-47/mission-sts-47.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> The Oriental Hornets used in the experiment were capable of building combs in the direction of the gravitational vector and detecting gravitational force changes in real time.<ref name=IANI>{{cite web|title=The Hornet Experiment|url=http://www.iami.org.il/projectsEng.htm|publisher=IAMI|access-date=20 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131028033241/http://www.iami.org.il/projectsEng.htm|archive-date=October 28, 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref>

===Early development of embryos in microgravity===
The early development of mice embryos in microgravity<ref name=IANI /> was a [[Hebrew University]] experiment designed to determine if mice embryo cells could develop normally in microgravity conditions in space. The outcome of the experiment was expected to help the understanding of early embryo cell development which would provide an insight into the possibilities of [[Sex in space|human reproduction in space]]. The payload was launched in 1996 on board [[Space Shuttle Columbia|Space Shuttle ''Columbia'']] mission [[STS-80]].<ref>{{cite journal|title=Detrimental Effects of Microgravity on Mouse Preimplantation Development In Vitro|year=2009|publisher=PLOS|doi=10.1371/journal.pone.0006753|last1=Wakayama|first1=Sayaka|last2=Kawahara|first2=Yumi|last3=Li|first3=Chong|last4=Yamagata|first4=Kazuo|last5=Yuge|first5=Louis|last6=Wakayama|first6=Teruhiko|journal=PLOS ONE|volume=4|issue=8|pages=e6753|pmid=19707597|pmc=2727478|bibcode=2009PLoSO...4.6753W|doi-access=free}}</ref>

On the same mission, a second experiment investigating the growth of osteoblast cells in microgravity environment was also conducted. During [[STS-80]] osteoblast cultures were grown in microgravity, using specialized hardware. The space-grown osteoblastic cells were then compared with the Earth-grown osteoblastic cells. The research revealed numerous changes between the two cells. The microgravity cells showed lower proliferation rate, a lower metabolism and an altered cell structure.<ref name=IANI />

A continuation from the osteoblast cells experiment was later expanded upon by astronaut [[John Glenn]] on board [[Space Shuttle Discovery|Space Shuttle ''Discovery'']], [[STS-95]]. The tests included the thinning effect of space on mouse bones. Additionally the process of calcium loss in the mouse bone was later compared to what happened in Glenn's body and effectiveness of a calcium-vitamin D supplement against osteoporosis.<ref name=IANI />

===MEIDEX===
{{main|Freestar_experiment#Mediterranean_Israeli_Dust_Experiment_.28MEIDEX.29|l1=MEIDEX Freestar Experiment}}
[[Image:MEIDEX Mission Logo.png|left|thumb|150px|MEIDEX Seal]]
The 2003 Mediterranean Israeli Dust Experiment (MEIDEX) was a Dust Experiment initiated by the ISA. The experiment was planned by a team from the Department of [[Geophysics]] and [[Planetary Sciences]] in [[Tel Aviv University]]. The objective was to study the temporal and spatial distribution and physical properties of atmospheric desert dust over [[North Africa]], the [[Mediterranean]] and the Atlantic [[Sahara]]n regions. The aim was achieved by a [[remote sensing]] experiment operated by the astronaut [[Ilan Ramon]] aboard the [[Space Shuttle Columbia|Space Shuttle ''Columbia'']].
{{clear}}

==Moon mission==
The Israeli Space Agency has sponsored the first Israeli effort to land a spacecraft on the Moon. Additionally the ISA has been collaborating with NASA about future lunar research programs.

===Israel Network for Lunar Science and Exploration===
The Israel Network for Lunar Science and Exploration (INLSE) program was established by the Israeli Space Agency part of an international effort to study the Moon and the Solar System.<ref name="SSERVI">{{cite web | url=https://sservi.nasa.gov/?team=israel-network-lunar-science-and-exploration | title=Israel Network for Lunar Science and Exploration | publisher=NASA | work=Solar System Exploration Research Virtual Institute | access-date=April 12, 2019}}</ref> In January 2010<ref>{{cite web|last=Kempinski|first=Yoni|title=Galactic Partnership: NASA and Israel Space Agency|url=http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/135742|publisher=Israel National News|access-date=20 November 2013}}</ref> a joint declaration by [[NASA]] and Israel Space Agency was signed making Israel a member of the NASA Center for Moon Research and promote cooperation between the two agencies. The INLSE hopes to bring its technical and engineering expertise for the sake of advancing the broad goals of lunar science at the [[Lunar Science Institute|institute]]. The agreement offers NASA important research involving lasers, the development of advanced sensors for Solar System research tasks and automatic vehicle navigation.<ref>{{cite web|last= Siegel|first=Judy|title=Israeli experts work with NASA on moon research|url=http://www.jpost.com/Health-and-Sci-Tech/Science-And-Environment/Israeli-experts-work-with-NASA-on-moon-research|publisher=[[The Jerusalem Post]] |date=January 28, 2010 |access-date=20 November 2013}}</ref>

===SpaceIL===
{{Main|SpaceIL}}
The SpaceIL is a [[non-governmental organization]] made up of multidisciplinary team of Israeli scientists and space aficionados. The organization was formed to compete in the international [[Google Lunar X Prize]] competition.

The SpaceIL team developed a [[robotic spacecraft]], built as a [[Small satellite|microsatellite]], weighing around 500&nbsp;kg. It was designed to be launched and then land on the Moon bearing the [[Israeli flag]]. To win, they must have been the first to launch, fly, and land the spacecraft on the Moon then transmit live video feed back to Earth. The team intended to donate the prize, about $30 million, toward space education, if they won it.

On 11 April 2019, ''[[Beresheet]]'' crash-landed on the lunar surface. Prior to impact, the probe had been able to take two last photographs: a view of itself against the Moon, and a closer shot of the Moon's surface.

On 13 April 2019, [[Morris Kahn]] announced that a new mission, named [[Beresheet 2]] would attempt a second time to land on the Moon. The planned date is 2024.  At [[World Space Week]] in Dubai, in October 2021, Israel and the UAE ministers of science and technology announced plans for cooperation on the mission.  Said Kahn to the Global Investment Forum in Dubai, "It would be wonderful if we could develop a space program that would be a combination of Israel and the Arab world,  “I would welcome it – if it fits in with the program the Emirates have. They have an ambitious program.”<ref name=":0">{{Cite news|last=Staff|date=21 October 2021|title=Israel, UAE sign historic space agreement|work=[[Jerusalem Post]]|url=https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/israel-uae-sign-historic-space-agreement-682672}}</ref>

In January 2025 it was announced that the [[Italian Space Agency|Italian space agency]] and the Israeli space agency will collaborate on the Beresheet 2 mission. The joint lunar exploration initiative was established through a Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Israel Space Agency (ISA) and the Italian Space Agency (ASI). The agreement was formalized by ISA Director-General Brig. Gen. Uri Oron and ASI President Prof. Teodoro Velente during the 20th Ilan Ramon International Space Conference in [[Tel Aviv]]. According to [[Globes (newspaper)|Globes]] the collaboration facilitates joint development of advanced technologies, such as landing sensors, communications systems, navigation, and control mechanisms. Although the final budget is yet to be decided, preliminary estimates suggest funding will exceed €10 million.<ref name="Globes2025">{{cite web |title=Italy to collaborate with SpaceIL on Beresheet 2 mission |url=https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-italy-to-collaborate-with-spaceil-on-beresheet-2-mission-1001500577 |website=Globes |date=2025-03-06 |access-date=2025-03-06}}</ref>

==Commercial and industry involvement==
The Israel Space Agency, Israeli industry, and the academy are all heavily involved in all the different stages of planning, development, construction, launching, and operating of space programs.

The main contractors of the [[Ofeq]] and [[Eros]] space programs is the  IAI Mabat factory in [[Yehud, Israel|Yehud]]. The Mabat facility is responsible for the experiment and integration center, the ground monitoring, and the control stations and the remote satellites receiving stations. Many of the high-tech companies are involved in the various space programs in Israel, and in manufacturing sub-systems and components.

The TAUVEX was spun off as DAVID, a small telescope with a resolution of about five meters. It is currently being developed jointly by an Israeli hi-tech firm and a German firm. Many smaller university-related commercial products are being developed across the state.

==Industrial groups==
In addition to university research, a number of large industrial groups are heavily involved with the Israel Space Agency.

===IAI===
The [[Israel Aerospace Industries]] (IAI) is Israel's prime aerospace and aviation manufacturer, producing aerial systems for both military and civilian usage. IAI entered the space race in the 1990s and has since been  responsible for the development of most Israel's civilian and military satellites, particularly the [[AMOS (satellite)|AMOS]] and [[Ofeq]].

===Elbit Systems===
El-Op, which merged with [[Elbit Systems]] in 2000, is the country's largest research and development company for space-qualified cameras and advanced telescopes that deal with various panchromatic, dual band, multi and super spectral wavelength applications. It is Israel's Center of Excellence for space [[electro-optics]].

===Rafael Advanced Defense Systems===
[[Rafael Advanced Defense Systems]] is the Israeli authority for development of weapons and military technology. They are responsible for most of the ISA's spacecraft propulsion systems.

==Agency managers/directors==
*Dror Sadeh	
*David Abir	
*Akiva Bar-Nun	1989 - 1993
*Marcel Klein	
*[[Aby Har Even]] (Avi Har-Even)	January 1995 - September 2004
*Zvi Kaplan	September 2004 - September 2011
*Menachem Kidron	January 2012 - 2015
*Avi Blasberger	May 2016- August 2021
*Uri Oron	September 2021

==Agency chairperson==
*Yuval Ne'eman (1983-2005)
*Yitzhak Ben Israel (2005-2022)
*Dan Blumberg (2022-)

== See also ==
{{Portal|Israel}}
* [[List of government space agencies]]
* [[National Committee for Space Research]]
* [[Science, Technology and Space Minister of Israel]]
* [[Economy of Israel]]
* [[List of multinationals with research and development centres in Israel]]
* [[List of space agencies]]
* [[Science and technology in Asia]]

== References ==
{{reflist|30em}}

== External links ==
* [http://space.gov.il/en ISA Home Page]
* {{Official website|http://most.gov.il/English}} of the [[Science and Technology Minister of Israel|Israeli Ministry of Science, Technology and Space]]
* {{Facebook|IsraelSpaceAgency}}
* {{YouTube|user=IsraelMOST}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20130927104842/http://nasa.proj.ac.il/ ISA-MEIDA (NASA Node)]

{{Israeli Space Program}}
{{Public sector space agencies}}
{{Asia topic|Science and technology in}}

[[Category:Space program of Israel]]
[[Category:Science and technology in Israel]]
[[Category:Space agencies]]
[[Category:1983 establishments in Israel]]