The Storm Chasers

The Rakia mission, launched with the AX-1 crew to the International Space Station in April 2022 under the leadership of Israel's second astronaut, Eytan Stibbe, included over 30 scientific experiments integrated into STEAM educational initiatives. Among these, the ILAN-ES experiment focused on observing thunderstorms and Transient Luminous Events (TLEs) from the ISS. In collaboration with Professor Yoav Yair of Reichman University, the Rakia Mission developed an educational kit designed for students (grades 8-12), offering a hands-on approach to atmospheric science, space missions, and climate change. The kit features comprehensive lesson plans, interactive board games, videos from space, and observational activities. The ILAN-ES experiment was successfully replicated during the AX-3 mission, with future Axiom missions also scheduled to participate. This provides a unique opportunity for students to engage with real-time scientific research and foster international cooperation. This article presents an overview of the ILAN-ES experiment, and the development of the educational kit. It highlights the pedagogical value of integrating space science into education and explores the potential for global collaboration among educators and students. The educational kit, launched during Israel's Space Week in January 2024, has garnered significant attention, and efforts are underway to expand its global impact.