The new space age: Israel holds youth satellite building contest

Competition, ending on August 30, encourages youngsters aged 12-15 to construct prototype satellite and present idea for an original mission for the spacecraft.

By JULIE STEIGERWALD
The new space age: Israel holds youth satellite building contest
The next generation of Israeli aeronautic innovation is reaching new heights in 2015.
The Science, Technology and Space Ministry in conjunction with the Israel Space Agency are holding a model satellite building competition for Israeli youth. The contest, which began on July 23 and will culminate on August 30, encourages youngsters aged 12- 15 to construct a prototype satellite and present an idea for an original mission for the orbiting-intended device.
The concept of the contest, held under the framework of the "Space Ambassadors" program, was elected in light of Israel's increasing reliance on satellites and nano-satellites.
"The competition is aimed at increasing youth interest and motivation in the study of science through familiarity with the field of space," Science Minister Danny Danon said in a statement.
The competition will award two stellar victors, who will undergo astronautic training in Israel and will also participate in NASA's elite space camp held every summer at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida for exceptional youth from around the world.
So far, some 20 applicants have submitted video entries via ISA's Facebook page presenting their devices. More submissions are expected to come in at the last minute as various participants likely want to conceal their concepts from competitors, a ministry spokeswoman told The Jerusalem Post.
As part of their prize, the winning duo will also meet with astronauts during the 66th International Astronautical Congress, which will take place in Jerusalem this October. In addition, the ISA will appoint the pair as representatives to Israeli youth in the fields of space and satellites.