# Space Foundation and Rakia Mission Sign Partnership Agreement To Expand Educational Opportunities in Israel

**COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — April 17, 2023 —**Space Foundation _,_ a nonprofit organization founded in 1983, offering information, education and collaboration for the global space ecosystem, today announced that its Center of Innovation and Education signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) at Space Symposium with Rakia Mission to expand educational opportunities for teachers and students in Israel.

As Space Foundation continues its worldwide education mission, building international partnerships is essential to expand science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) opportunities to teachers and students throughout the world. In collaboration with Rakia Mission, Space Foundation is proud to further the growth of knowledge through shared insight and a drive to make the world a better place for all.

Remarking on the new partnership, Space Foundation Senior Vice President, Center for Innovation and Education Dr. John West said, “Space Foundation is thrilled to partner with Rakia Mission to create more opportunities for young minds to build their STEAM skills. Israel has made great strides in recent years when it comes to space-based technology and industry, and Rakia Mission has embodied this spirit perfectly. In the U.S., Israel and beyond, we look forward to expanding the accessibility of science for the next generation.”

Rakia Mission is a public-benefit corporation that enables entrepreneurs, researchers, students, educators and the public to explore innovative ideas focused on space. The corporation offers a platform where innovations can be tested, particularly on the International Space Station, contributing to Israel’s space industry, scientific research, and vibrant culture. Additionally, Rakia is committed to developing educational programs that are accessible to all, expanding STEAM opportunities for Israeli children.

“Rakia is delighted with the opportunity to foster a partnership with Space Foundation, an organization with which it has a shared vision. This partnership will allow us to promote innovation, education and collaboration within the global space ecosystem. It will inspire and empower individuals around the world, making it possible for them to embark on their dream of space exploration,” said Eytan Stibbe, AX-1 astronaut and Rakia Mission Director.

Space Foundation and Rakia Mission have agreed to collaborate in the following areas:

  * Fundraising and applying for relevant grants.
  * Exploration of opportunities to promote each organization’s mission and activities.
  * Promotion of the partnership in all forms of verbal and written communication.



**About Rakia Mission**

Rakia Mission is a public-benefit corporation that offers the general public an opportunity to participate in space missions. The organization’s activities are aimed at promoting innovation, social responsibility, peace and earth preservation through space activity and research. Rakia Mission provides a platform for various individuals, including entrepreneurs, researchers, students and artists to contribute to the Israeli space industry, research and culture. Additionally, it creates educational programs accessible to all Israeli children, programs that mainly promote STEAM subjects. Visit Rakia Mission at www.rakiamission.co.il, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn for more information.

**About Space Symposium**

Space Symposium, hosted by Space Foundation since 1984, is the premier assembly for the global space ecosystem. The live event, held in Colorado Springs, Colorado, is widely attended by commercial and government leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and teachers around the globe. To learn more about Space Symposium, visit www.space symposium.org.

**About Center for Innovation and Education**

Center for Innovation and Education is a lifelong learning provider for the global space ecosystem, offering workforce development and economic opportunity via Space Commerce Institute and Space Foundation Discovery Center _._ Serving pre-K-12 and university students, teachers, entrepreneurs, businesses and professionals, programs and resources are delivered in person or online around the globe. Through its Workforce Development Roadmap of programs and resources, Center for Innovation and Education enhances the outlook and opportunities for careers, jobs and business ventures. To learn more about Center for Innovation and Education, visit www.spacefoundation.org/cie _,_ and Space Foundation Discovery Center, visit www.discoverspace.org.

**About Space Foundation **

Space Foundation is a nonprofit organization founded in 1983, offering information, education and collaboration for the global space ecosystem. Driven by partnerships, Space Foundation unites the entire spectrum of stakeholders — business, government, education and local communities — through support from corporate members, sponsors, fundraising and grants. Visit Space Foundation at www.SpaceFoundation.org, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.