Israel Active

Hundreds of events are scheduled to be held at universities and research institutes for Israel’s National Science Day on March 26. Usually held on March 14, the birthday of Albert Einstein, the celebration is postponed this year to avoid clashing with celebrations for the festival of Purim.

Delegates at the recent AIPAC conference saw a demonstration of EyeMusic – a tool that provides visual information for the blind. Shapes, colors and locations are converted to music in order to give an audible “picture” of objects.

Qoros - the joint venture between Israel Corporation and China's Chery - has unveiled the EBIKE at the Geneva Motor Show. The bike, one of the most advanced electric bicycles ever developed, is equipped with a large battery, electric motor, touchscreen display and traditional pedals. Meanwhile, multinational car manufacturers are expecting heavy competition from Qoros’ new hatchback.

The Israeli accelerator MindCet incubates education technology start-ups in Tel Aviv and in the Negev. Its founders went to SXSWedu in Austin Texas, along with start-ups CodeMonkey, Simlisco and RoadStory to explain how technology can significantly change teaching and learning processes.

Israeli start-up Valentis is developing a packaging material that has a strength-to-weight ratio 8 times greater than stainless steel. The material is based on nano-crystalline cellulose (NCC), a biodegradable, transparent material made from plant pulp waste.

Israel’s TinyLove makes innovative toys for babies. Check out this video, showing only one of their many products. It’s on the anti-Israel boycott list, so please support them.

Israel’s SpaceIL says its 140kg LunarX satellite is one of the top contenders for Google’s $30 million prize for landing on the moon. It is the smallest, smartest spacecraft, plus the first to rely on optic navigation. And the project has already won the hearts of a whole generation of Israelis.

The Technion-Cornell Innovation Institute (JTCII) is launching a new one-year postdoctoral “Runway program” for technology entrepreneurs. Professors provide academic guidance whilst off-campus consultants supply legal, industrial and financial advice.

Only in Israel can Citi, Ebay, General Electric, General Motors, Microsoft, Red Hat, and 3M develop new ideas together. The seven companies will send 3-5 software engineers to a “Weekathon” in Ra’anana where they will work in groups to develop futuristic products.

(Thanks to Atid-EDI) Israel’s Simgo has launched a low-cost roaming service for Samsung and iPhone. Attach a virtual SIM-enabled protective cover to access high-speed data services, enjoy excellent quality, whilst retaining your own mobile number for all calls.