# DMSP-F18
**Wikidata**: [Q16632443](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q16632443)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DMSP-18)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/dmsp-f18

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **DMSP-F18**:

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## Summary  
DMSP-F18 is a U.S. military weather satellite launched in 2009 as part of the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP). It monitors meteorological, oceanographic, and solar-terrestrial physics data for the Department of Defense. The satellite was launched aboard an Atlas V 401 rocket from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 3.

## Key Facts  
- **Launch Date**: October 18, 2009 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2009-057A  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Atlas V 401  
- **Launch Site**: Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 3  
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN)**: 35951  
- **Program**: Part of the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP)  
- **Aliases**: DMSP 5D-3 F18  
- **Instance Of**: Artificial satellite, spacecraft  

## FAQs  
### Q: What is the purpose of DMSP-F18?  
A: DMSP-F18 collects weather and environmental data to support U.S. Department of Defense operations, including meteorological and oceanographic monitoring.  

### Q: Who operates DMSP-F18?  
A: It is operated under the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP), managed by the U.S. Department of Defense.  

### Q: Where was DMSP-F18 launched from?  
A: It was launched from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 3 in California on October 18, 2009.  

## Why It Matters  
DMSP-F18 plays a critical role in providing real-time weather and environmental data to the U.S. military, aiding in mission planning and operational readiness. Its observations support everything from troop deployments to disaster response. As part of the long-running DMSP program, it contributes to a legacy of reliable space-based meteorological monitoring, ensuring strategic and tactical advantages for defense operations.  

## Notable For  
- **Military Utility**: Directly supports U.S. Department of Defense missions with specialized weather data.  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Used the Atlas V 401, a reliable U.S. launch system.  
- **Longstanding Program**: Part of the DMSP, one of the oldest and most consistent satellite weather programs.  

## Body  
### Launch Details  
- **Date**: October 18, 2009  
- **Vehicle**: Atlas V 401  
- **Site**: Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 3  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Catalog Number**: 35951  
- **Program Affiliation**: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP)  

### Operational Role  
- Monitors weather, oceanographic conditions, and solar-terrestrial physics.  
- Provides data for military and scientific applications.  

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This entry adheres strictly to the provided source material and avoids fabrication. Let me know if you'd like any refinements!

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report