Participant registration and informal networking ahead of the conference opening.

Registration

08:00

Official opening of the conference

Opening Remarks

09:00

An exploration of the legacy of STS-107 Columbia and Ilan Ramon, and how moments of crisis became catalysts for resilience, strategic vision, and the continued growth of Israel’s space industry.

National Perspectives and the Columbia Legacy

09:30

A snapshot of Israel’s space ecosystem in 2025, examining key achievements, strategic initiatives, and the evolving role of Israeli industry and research in the global space arena.

Israel in Space: 2025 Overview

09:40

A fireside conversation centered on Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) and its educational impact, exploring how human space missions inspire students, engage young audiences, and translate spaceflight experience into meaningful learning. The discussion highlights how the International Space Station can be used as a powerful platform for education, outreach, and empowering the next generation.

Inspiring the Next Generation Through Human Spaceflight

09:45

A discussion on the evolving role of academia in the space sector, focusing on how to better prepare the next generation of researchers and engineers. Drawing insights from the past two years in Israel and globally, the conversation explores gaps in current training, the need for creative and interdisciplinary problem-solving, and the impact of emerging tools such as AI. The session also examines how space missions can drive breakthrough research and why fundamental research remains essential to the advancement of humanity.

Space, Academia, and the Future of Knowledge

10:05

A formal ceremony awarding the Avi Har-Even Space Education Scholarships, recognizing outstanding individuals advancing space education and inspiring the next generation. The ceremony honors the legacy of Aby Har-Even and his lasting contribution to education, leadership, and Israel’s space community.

Har-Even Space Education Scholarships

10:40

A short break for refreshments and informal networking.

Break

10:50

A review of major developments and trends across the global space sector in 2025, including missions, policy changes, technological progress, and international cooperation.

Space Worldwide: 2025 Overview

11:15

Industry perspectives on the future of space stations, featuring short expert briefings from leading commercial station developers, followed by a moderated panel discussion. The session explores emerging platforms beyond the International Space Station, their technological and operational concepts, and their role in enabling research, industry, and sustained human presence in Low Earth Orbit.

Beyond the ISS: The Future of Human Presence in Orbit

11:20