Pioneering Israeli Space Researcher Adi Ninio Greenberg Dies at 50

Dr. Adi Ninio Greenberg, a key figure in Israel's space community and head of academic relations at the Israel Space Agency, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday at the age of 50. She was widely recognized for her dedication to advancing scientific research, technological education, and nurturing the next generation of space professionals in Israel.

Ninio Greenberg's career began in the Israeli Air Force's space division, where she served as an officer and head of the space department. She later earned a doctorate in comet research from Tel Aviv University, studying under former Israel Space Agency Director Prof. Akiva Bar-Nun.

In her recent role at the Israel Space Agency, she managed academic outreach and spearheaded numerous national and international projects. These included overseeing the agency's scholarship program at NASA's Ames Research Center and fostering research collaborations with the United Arab Emirates for the Israeli-French VENUS research satellite.

Ninio Greenberg was also instrumental in founding the scientific track at the International Ilan Ramon Conference. She led the Space Agency's research fund, supported the development of the space community on the Campus IL platform, and inspired thousands of students through accessible science education initiatives.