For First Time a Woman Leads the Israeli Space Agency

Jerusalem, 23 July, 2025 (TPS-IL) — For the first time, a woman will head the Israeli Space Agency. Innovation Minister Gila Gamliel recently signed the appointment of Dr. Shamrit Tirosh Mamanto the post, for a period of three years.

Dr. Shamrit Tirosh Maman will replace Prof. Dan Bloomberg, who has served in the position since 2022, and by virtue of her position, she will be responsible for outlining Israeli space policy, developing and leading strategic programs in the field of space, fostering international collaborations, and monitoring the implementation of the various programs.

Dr. Maman, 45, a space researcher and senior scientist, became the first woman to hold the position. She will replace Prof. Dan Bloomberg, who has successfully served in the position since 2022.

Dr. Maman, a senior scientist at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, brings with her over two decades of experience in space-based technologies. She directs the Planetary Remote Sensing and Imaging Laboratory (EPIF) — one of NASA’s 17 regional planetary laboratories worldwide — and has served as vice chair of the Earth Observations Committee of the International Astronautical Federation (IAF).

During her career, Dr. Maman led the UN Regional Office in Israel for Space-Based Information Support for Disaster and Emergency Management (UN-SPIDER), and served as Israel’s representative to the UN Committees on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS).

In addition, she leads pioneering initiatives to advance women in space, including the internationally recognized “She Space” program.