Israel Makes History: First Female Astronaut to Launch into Space with NASA

“I received confirmation from NASA to send the first Israeli woman astronaut into space,” Gamliel revealed. “We in Israel have now begun the process of searching for our candidate among our brave women.”

This milestone comes as Israel strengthens its international space partnerships, particularly with the United States, Italy, Azerbaijan, and regional partners in the Abraham Accords, such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The conference, named in memory of Ilan Ramon, Israel’s first astronaut who tragically died in the 2003 Columbia Space Shuttle disaster, brought together global leaders in space exploration, including Omran Sharaf, the UAE’s assistant foreign minister for advanced science and technology, and Professor Teodoro Valente, president of the Italian Space Agency.

During the event, Valente signed an agreement with Israeli Space Agency Director Uri Oron to develop a payload for a future lunar mission. “Our space cooperation is really improving,” Valente said, acknowledging the recent progress between Italy and Israel in space-related ventures.

President Yitzchak Herzog, in a video message from New York, praised Israel's growing role in the global space sector. "Israel, despite being a small country, stands at the global forefront of the space field and serves as a significant factor in leading international space programs," Herzog stated. He also noted the importance of the Abraham Accords in fostering space collaborations with nations like the UAE.

Gamliel highlighted Israel's space education initiatives, including a project involving Israeli high school students who have designed and built nine nano-satellites. These satellites, created by students from across the country—many from areas near the Gaza border—will launch aboard SpaceX rockets this March.

“For us, space represents hope and resilience,” shared Or Ziner, a high school senior from southern Israel who led one of the satellite projects. Ziner reflected on her personal experiences growing up amid rocket sirens from Gaza, adding significant meaning to her participation in the project.

The event also paid tribute to Ilan Ramon's legacy. “My father’s mission was not just historic for Israel but for the entire Jewish community,” said Ramon’s son, Iftah. “It became a symbol of pride, hope, and possibility.”

In closing, Gamliel emphasized the importance of international cooperation, noting, “Twenty years ago, we began a journey that transformed how the world sees Israel’s role in space exploration. By continuing to forge global partnerships, we aim to solidify Israel’s status as a leader in the space industry while contributing to innovation and progress worldwide.”