Israel’s space program has two main tracks: civilian research and industry coordinated by the Israel Space Agency, and defense satellites and launchers led by the Ministry of Defense. Israel established the agency in 1983; Ofek 1, launched in 1988 by a Shavit rocket, began Israel’s independent satellite era.
What the Israel Space Agency coordinates
The Israel Space Agency is a state body within the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology. It initiates and coordinates civilian space activity, supports applied research and Israeli space companies, develops international cooperation, and runs education programs. Its work includes satellite applications for communications, agriculture, environmental monitoring, and scientific research, according to the agency’s description of its mandate.
The agency funds research proposals on Earth observation, astronomy, planetary science, and spacecraft instruments. It also supports partnerships among researchers, companies, and foreign agencies. Israel’s civilian program is distinct from the Ministry of Defense’s Space Program Office, which works with the IDF and Israeli Aerospace Industries on defense satellites and launch systems.
From Ofek 1 to lunar orbit
Israel’s first satellite, Ofek 1, launched on September 19, 1988, on the Shavit launcher. The launch established a national ability to place a satellite in orbit using an Israeli-built rocket. The Ministry of Defense describes Ofek as an observation satellite series and identifies Shavit as its three-stage launcher. The Defense Ministry’s Space Administration oversees satellite and launcher development.
In 2019, SpaceIL’s Beresheet became the first privately funded spacecraft to enter lunar orbit. It did not complete a soft landing, but its lunar-orbit insertion marked a major step for an Israeli-led private mission. Read the full account in Beresheet 1: Mission, Design, Payload, and Landing Attempt.
Research and education are part of the program
Israel’s program also supports academic research and space technology companies. The agency lists projects in Earth observation, nanosatellites, spacecraft components, and planetary science. Its TEVEL program gives high school students experience designing and communicating with nanosatellites. In March 2025, nine TEVEL 2 satellites built by students launched together from California; the Israel Space Agency’s mission update describes their design and planned measurements.
These activities connect public research and education to Israel’s broader satellite capability. Explore Shavit and Ofek and commercial space research and education.