# ITOS-E2

> The ITOS-E2 meteorological satellite provides global daytime and nightime direct readout cloudcover data on a daily basis.

**Wikidata**: [Q113274421](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q113274421)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/itos-e2

## Summary
ITOS-E2 is an American meteorological satellite belonging to the Improved TIROS Operational System (ITOS) class. Launched on September 23, 1976, via a Delta rocket, its primary mission was to provide global daytime and nighttime direct readout cloud cover data on a daily basis.

## Key Facts
- **Instance of:** Improved TIROS Operational System
- **Launch date:** September 23, 1976
- **Launch vehicle:** Delta
- **Primary function:** Providing global daytime and nighttime direct readout cloud cover data
- **Data availability:** Daily
- **NSSDCA ID:** ITOS-E2
- **Operator/Model Class:** American meteorological satellite

## FAQs
### Q: What was the primary purpose of the ITOS-E2 satellite?
A: The primary purpose of ITOS-E2 was to gather meteorological data, specifically providing global cloud cover images. It achieved this by offering direct readout of cloud cover data during both daytime and nighttime on a daily basis.

### Q: When was ITOS-E2 launched and what vehicle was used?
A: ITOS-E2 was launched on September 23, 1976. The satellite was delivered into orbit using a Delta expendable launch system.

### Q: What type of satellite is ITOS-E2?
A: ITOS-E2 is classified as an Improved TIROS Operational System satellite. It is an American meteorological satellite designed for weather observation.

## Why It Matters
ITOS-E2 represents a specific configuration within the broader history of American meteorological satellite operations. As part of the Improved TIROS Operational System (ITOS), it played a role in the transition from early experimental weather satellites to fully operational systems. The primary significance of ITOS-E2 lies in its capability to provide global cloud cover data continuously, operating during both day and night. This ability to capture nighttime data is a crucial technical distinction from earlier optical systems that relied solely on sunlight. By offering daily direct readout capabilities, ITOS-E2 would have supported weather forecasting agencies in tracking meteorological patterns, thereby contributing to more accurate weather prediction and climate monitoring during its operational period. Its existence highlights the reliance on the Delta launch family during this era of space exploration.

## Notable For
- Being part of the **Improved TIROS Operational System**, a key program in the history of American weather satellites.
- Providing **daily global cloud cover data**, ensuring frequent updates for meteorologists.
- Operating during **both daytime and nighttime**, allowing for continuous monitoring regardless of local lighting conditions.
- Being launched aboard a **Delta rocket**, one of the most historically significant families of expendable launch systems.

## Body

### Mission and Capabilities
ITOS-E2 was designed as a meteorological satellite with a specific focus on cloud cover observation. Unlike earlier satellites that may have been limited by lighting conditions or transmission intervals, ITOS-E2 was engineered to provide data continuously. Its systems allowed for the collection of global cloud cover imagery through direct readout transmission. This means that ground stations could receive data directly from the satellite as it passed overhead.

### Classification and Design
The satellite is an instance of the **Improved TIROS Operational System (ITOS)**. The ITOS program was a follow-up to the original TIROS (Television Infrared Observation Satellite) series. While the specific technical dimensions are not provided in the source material, the classification confirms it follows the design and operational standards of the ITOS model of American meteorological satellites.

### Launch Details
The satellite was successfully launched on **September 23, 1976**. The launch was facilitated by a **Delta** launch vehicle. The Delta family of rockets was a standard workhorse for American space missions during this period, known for its reliability in placing medium-class payloads into orbit.

### Operational Function
The core function of ITOS-E2 was to provide "direct readout cloudcover data." This implies the satellite was equipped with sensors and transmitters that allowed for the immediate dissemination of weather data to receiving stations around the globe. The specification that it operated on a "daily basis" underscores the operational cadence of the mission, aimed at providing consistent and timely weather intelligence.