Shavit

Shavit is a Hebrew term meaning “comet” and is used as a given name and surname in Israel. The word appears in cultural and linguistic contexts within Israeli society and is sometimes used in naming places, programs, and products as a nod to the imagery of a comet.

In aerospace, Shavit refers to Israel’s orbital launch vehicle developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) for placing small satellites into low Earth orbit. The Shavit rocket has been associated with Israel’s Ofek satellite program and was designed to extend the country’s space capabilities by providing a domestically produced means to reach orbit. The program began in the late 20th century, and its launches have included both successful and earlier unsuccessful missions as the vehicle and procedures were refined. The Shavit concept and its launches have been a notable part of Israel’s efforts to develop independent access to space for civil and defense-related payloads.

Beyond rockets, Shavit is commonly encountered as a personal name in Israel, used by men and, less frequently, as a surname. It remains a recognizable element in Israeli culture and technology reporting due to its association with the space program and national science and technology initiatives. See also related topics on Israeli spaceflight and the Ofek satellite program.