# KH-4 9049
**Wikidata**: [Q11691526](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q11691526)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/kh-4-9049

## Summary
KH-4 9049 was a reconnaissance satellite launched by the United States in 1962 as part of the KH-4 series, designed for covert intelligence gathering. It was launched aboard a Thor-Agena D rocket from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2. The mission contributed to Cold War-era military surveillance efforts.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date:** December 4, 1962  
- **COSPAR ID:** 1962-066A  
- **Launch Vehicle:** Thor-Agena D  
- **Launch Site:** Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2  
- **Classification:** Reconnaissance satellite (intelligence/military applications)  
- **Significant Event:** Rocket launch on December 4, 1962, at Vandenberg  
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 00490  

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of KH-4 9049?  
A: KH-4 9049 was a reconnaissance satellite designed to collect covert intelligence data for military and strategic applications during the Cold War.  

### Q: What rocket launched KH-4 9049?  
A: It was launched aboard a Thor-Agena D, an American orbital launch vehicle.  

### Q: Where was KH-4 9049 launched from?  
A: The satellite was launched from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 in California.  

## Why It Matters  
KH-4 9049 was part of the KH-4 series, a critical component of U.S. Cold War reconnaissance efforts. These satellites provided high-resolution imagery for intelligence analysis, helping monitor global military activities and geopolitical developments. The data gathered supported national security decisions during a tense period of U.S.-Soviet rivalry. Its launch marked another step in the evolution of space-based surveillance, demonstrating the strategic importance of orbital reconnaissance in modern warfare.  

## Notable For  
- **Cold War Surveillance:** Contributed to U.S. intelligence-gathering during a pivotal historical period.  
- **Thor-Agena D Launch Vehicle:** Utilized a reliable American rocket for orbital deployment.  
- **Vandenberg Launch Site:** Part of a strategic U.S. space launch complex for polar-orbiting missions.  

## Body  
### Launch Details  
- **Date:** December 4, 1962  
- **Launch Site:** Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2  
- **Vehicle:** Thor-Agena D  

### Mission Profile  
- **Classification:** Reconnaissance satellite (military/intelligence)  
- **COSPAR ID:** 1962-066A  
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 00490  

### Historical Context  
- Part of the KH-4 series, advancing U.S. capabilities in orbital imaging.  
- Supported Cold War-era intelligence operations against Soviet activities.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report