SpaceIL Resources

The iCenter is proud to be the North American partner of SpaceIL, whose ingenuity and perseverance made Israel the seventh country to get to the Moon, and the fourth country to reach the surface. The spacecraft, aptly named Beresheet (“In the Beginning,” and also the first word in the Torah) marked the first private lunar initiative, the smallest spacecraft by weight, and the longest journey from the Earth to the Moon.

SpaceIL’s collective vision is to create a new “Apollo Effect”—or rather, the “Beresheet Effect”—to inspire the next generation in Israel and around the world to think differently about science, engineering, technology, and math. It inspires critical thinking and engagement. Through this mission and the materials below, the next generation can deepen their relationship with Israel, and further spark their curiosity to dream and achieve.

TAKE ISRAEL TO THE MOON

Between Israel’s attempt to land the smallest spacecraft on the Moon and the story of famous Israeli astronaut, Ilan Ramon, participants now have the opportunity to “take Israel to the Moon” while exploring the elements that make up their Jewish identities and relationships with Israel in the context of space exploration.

STORIES THAT PORTRAITS TELL: ILAN RAMON

Using the art and methodology of popular Israeli artist Hanoch Piven, we can explore Israel’s culture, values, and history, as well as our own personal connections to Israel. On the occasion of SpaceIL’s historic mission to the Moon, Piven created a portrait of Israel’s first and only astronaut, Col. Ilan Ramon, a member of the team aboard Space Shuttle Columbia that went into orbit in 2003. Tragically, Ramon was killed, along with the other six members of the Columbia crew, when the Space Shuttle exploded upon re-entry. Through this portrait, we explore both Ramon’s relationship to Judaism and Israel, as well as Israel’s relationship to space exploration.

WAYS TO USE SPACEIL RESOURCES

SpaceIL is a natural fit for a variety of different areas in your educational setting. While the following ideas were inspired by using SpaceIL at summer camp, they can also be a launch pad for you to creatively to infuse the messages and excitement around SpaceIL into any setting.

PEOPLE WHO INSPIRE: A LIGHT UNTO THE NATIONS

Israel’s annual Yom Ha’atzmaut – Independence Day – celebrations are launched with a ceremony that highlights individuals who continue to build up the State of Israel and inspire others to do so. “The Israeli Spirit” was the theme for the celebration of Israel’s 71st anniversary. Each year, a diverse group of people representing a variety of fields are chosen to light one of the 12 torches (representing the 12 Tribes of Israel). Each torch lighter introduces themselves and closes with the words “U’le’tiferet Medinat Yisrael” (“To the glory of the State of Israel”). Among those honored as torchlighters in 2019: the co-founder of SpaceIL and the lead philanthropist who provided funding to drive the effort.

SPACEIL POSTERS

Turn any space into a place to learn about Israel’s race to the Moon — and dream their own big dreams! Hang the posters featuring Ilan Ramon, SpaceIL, and details about the planets and the Moon in high-traffic areas.

MOON PLAYLISTS

Whether these songs serve as the focal point, or are integrated into the environment during other SpaceIL activities, enjoy these curated Moon Party playlists for free. The music may be played through this page, or save either playlist in your own account through the Spotify application. You may create a Spotify account for free! Please contact us with any questions or technical issues (or ask any kid…they know).