The team of eighth and ninth graders designed a system that rethinks how water can be used in space. Their idea places a multi-layer component within the spacecraft’s outer shell to protect astronauts from radiation, help regulate temperature, and store water that could one day support human life on the Moon or Mars.
The Ramon Space Olympiad, led by the Ramon Foundation and Israel’s Ministry of Innovation and the Israel Space Agency, connects students with experts from the aerospace field who act as mentors throughout the process.
This year much of the work took place remotely, due to security challenges. But the team stayed focused, refining their idea.
“It’s not just about getting to space,” said Itamar, one of the team members. “It’s about keeping people safe once they’re there.” Michelle added that the experience taught her how to think like a researcher and work as part of a team, while Sahar spoke about the value of learning together through the process.
The team, guided by teacher Eti Raz and mentor Dr. Ronen Shaham, includes Yair Finkelman, Inbar Fichman, Daniel Isterakh, Itai Eini, Michelle Khitrov, Itamar Bidani, and Sahar David.
Principal Revital Haver was impressed with the students’ consistent effort and serious approach to learning, incorporating the valuable guidance they received.
