Israeli high school students launch 9 satellites in historic research project, including first-ever Druze satellite

In a groundbreaking moment for Israel’s space program, nine research satellites built by high school students from across the country were successfully launched into orbit from California. Among them was the first-ever Druze satellite, closely followed by excited onlookers in Kafr Qara and Yarka in the Galilee.

The launch was part of the "TBL" program, an initiative by the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology and Tel Aviv University. TBL, an acronym in Hebrew for "Students Build Satellites," is the largest satellite constellation ever launched by Israel.

"This unique initiative reflects the beauty and strength of Israeli society in all its diversity," said Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology Gila Gamliel. "Everyone is working together for a common scientific goal."

Approximately 300 outstanding students from nine municipalities in northern, southern and central Israel participated in the ambitious project. Over the course of three years, they received training in satellite engineering, programming and space technology.

"Being in an Ulpana (religious girls' school) and being religious girls does not set us apart from the others," said one of the students. "We also want to gain knowledge. We proved to ourselves here that we can do it."

The project was particularly significant for students from Sha'ar HaNegev, who continued working despite experiencing the trauma of the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas massacre.

"I think our biggest challenge as a group was to keep learning and, in general, to be part of the project during the war," said Or, project manager for the Sha'ar HaNegev team. "It's not something to take for granted that kids our age would do something like this."

Among the satellites launched was "Ofir Satellite," named in honor of Ofir Libstein, the late head of the regional council who was killed defending Kfar Aza during the Hamas attack.

"Every time we receive a beacon signal from it, we will also receive the name of a victim or fallen soldier from October 7 and throughout the war," explained one student. "It is only right to commemorate and honor their memory through the satellite."

The satellites will remain in orbit for approximately three years, conducting scientific research, including measurements of cosmic radiation. In addition, satellite communication stations have been established in four municipalities, enabling students to interact directly with the satellites they helped create.

This historic mission not only represents a major technological achievement but also serves as an inspiration for the next generation of Israeli scientists and engineers.