The Rakia Mission and the International Space University (ISU) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at advancing concrete collaboration in space education, research, and professional training, strengthening Israel’s integration into the global space ecosystem.

The agreement was signed in the presence of Hadar Vernik-Shalev, CEO of the Rakia Mission, Dr. John Wensveen, President of ISU, and ISU Chancellor, astronaut Eytan Stibbe. The MoU marks another step in deepening Israel’s academic and professional partnerships within the international space arena.

Rakia Mission, a public benefit organization dedicated to advancing the space sector in Israel, announced today the signing of the MoU with ISU,  the world’s leading institution for training space professionals, including engineers, researchers, program managers, and policymakers. The collaboration is designed to promote hands-on cooperation between academia, industry, and space agencies, both in Israel and globally.

The agreement outlines a series of practical initiatives, including the development of joint training programs for students, researchers, and industry professionals from Israel and around the world, increased participation of Israelis in ISU’s flagship programs, including interdisciplinary courses, summer programs, and leadership tracks in space, and the development of joint research initiatives and applied projects in areas such as human spaceflight, space policy, education, and innovation. A key focus of the collaboration is strengthening the connection between academia, industry, and government stakeholders across Israel and the international space community.

Today, more than 160 ISU alumni are active in Israel, holding key positions across industry, academia, government, and space-related organizations, and playing a significant role in shaping the Israeli space ecosystem. As part of the agreement, Rakia Mission will work to further strengthen the Israeli alumni community, encourage professional connections, knowledge-sharing, and create new opportunities for the next generation of space professionals. The initiative is intended to establish clearer pathways for Israeli students and entrepreneurs to integrate into the global space industry and to enhance Israel’s presence within international centers of decision-making, knowledge, and influence.

The MoU was signed shortly after Israeli Space Week, during which Israel hosted an international delegation of astronauts and senior leaders from the space industry in Israel and abroad.

The International Space University, based in Strasbourg, France, is the world’s premier institution for space education. With a global network of students, alumni, faculty, and partners, ISU offers interdisciplinary graduate programs and executive education that promote international collaboration and innovation in space.

Dr. John Wensveen, President of ISU, said:
This partnership with Rakia Mission reflects International Space University’s commitment to building meaningful, regionally grounded collaborations that strengthen the global space ecosystem. Together, we are creating new pathways for education, workforce development, and alumni engagement—starting with Israel as a pilot model that aligns directly with ISU’s MOON SHOT 2030 strategy. Rakia’s leadership and convening power, combined with ISU’s global academic platform and alumni network, position this collaboration to deliver real, sustainable impact.

Hadar Vernik-Shilo, CEO of Rakia Mission, added:  “This collaboration with ISU is designed to turn space into a tangible professional pathway for Israel. The agreement defines concrete steps that connect academic knowledge, international experience, and real-world needs, as part of building the next generation of Israel’s space industry”.