SpaceIL logo

SpaceIL

operating 11–50 employees

Israeli nonprofit building robotic lunar landers and promoting STEM education

About

SpaceIL is an Israeli nonprofit organization founded in 2011 to compete in the Google Lunar X Prize. In April 2019, SpaceIL launched its Beresheet spacecraft aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9, making Israel the seventh nation to reach lunar orbit and the first privately funded spacecraft to attempt a Moon landing, though it crashed during descent. The organization began development of Beresheet 2, a dual-lander and orbiter mission, but suspended it in April 2025 after key donors reduced support. SpaceIL continues its educational mission through the SpaceUP school program and nationwide volunteer lectures, having reached over one million students. The organization is based at Tel Aviv University and backed primarily by philanthropic funding totaling over $163 million.

Products & Services

Small robotic lunar lander (585 kg fueled) that reached lunar orbit and attempted soft landing in April 2019. Carried magnetometer, laser retroreflector, and Arch Mission Foundation time capsule. First privately funded spacecraft to reach the Moon. Crashed during descent due to gyroscope failure.
Planned dual-lander and orbiter mission to deploy two small landers at different lunar sites with a long-term orbiter. Developed with IAI and international partners including the UAE. Mission suspended in April 2025 due to funding shortfall.
STEM education program operating in 16 schools across Israel, combining space science curriculum with hands-on learning to inspire the next generation of engineers and scientists.

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Overview

Founded 2011
HQ Tel Aviv, Israel
Type Private Company

Leadership

Co-Founder
Kfir Damari
Co-Founder
Yonatan Winetraub
Co-Founder

Classification