In a celestial twist, NASA astronaut Jasmin Moghbeli plans to celebrate Hanukkah aboard the International Space Station (ISS) with a unique felt menorah. Unable to use fire due to safety protocols, Moghbeli’s solution involves a specially crafted felt menorah, allowing her to partake in the tradition. “My husband and little girls helped make a felt menorah, with lights for each night, that I can pin on to celebrate with them,” she shared. This cosmic celebration exemplifies the adaptability of traditions in the extraordinary setting of space.
In a cool twist, NASA astronaut Jasmin Moghbeli is gearing up for a special Hanukkah celebration on the International Space Station (ISS). Since lighting a real menorah is a no-go in space, she’s getting creative with a felt version.
“My husband and little girls helped make a felt menorah, with lights for each night, that I can pin on to celebrate with them,” Moghbeli explained during a press conference. This DIY menorah is her way of keeping the holiday spirit alive in space.
Hanukkah is a big deal for Judaism, usually happening in November or December. It’s all about remembering the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and a miracle involving oil that lasted eight days. Even though there can’t be real flames on the ISS, the felt menorah carries the tradition in a new, space-friendly way.
Moghbeli is leading the Crew-7 mission, which includes astronauts from different parts of the world. Launched in August, it’s a big deal for Moghbeli, who became a NASA astronaut in 2017. The mission shows that space travel isn’t just about science; it’s also about bringing different cultures together.
Beyond the technical side, this Hanukkah celebration has a deeper meaning. In 2023, the world has seen an increase in antisemitic incidents, especially after the Israel-Hamas war. Moghbeli’s celebration is like a little light of peace, showing that traditions can thrive even in challenging times.
As we follow the Crew-7 mission, Moghbeli’s felt menorah becomes more than just a craft project. It symbolizes the strength of traditions, even when you’re floating in space. This makeshift menorah is not just a piece of cloth; it’s a way to connect with the roots and cultures that make us who we are.
In the end, NASA’s Hanukkah celebration with a felt menorah in space is like a small, shining star in the vastness of the ISS. It’s a reminder that, even in space, people find ways to hold onto their traditions and spread a little warmth.
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How does the NASA astronaut celebrate Hanukkah in space?
Jasmin Moghbeli uses a special felt menorah, following safety rules on the International Space Station.
Why can’t they use flames on the ISS, affecting Hanukkah traditions?
Flames are a no-go for safety reasons. Astronauts, like Moghbeli, get creative with felt menorahs to keep traditions alive.
What does the felt menorah mean in space celebrations?
The felt menorah shows how astronauts keep traditions in space, a little piece of home and connection to loved ones on Earth.
