# KH-9 Hexagon

> series of U.S. reconnaissance satellites

**Wikidata**: [Q794697](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q794697)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KH-9_Hexagon)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/kh-9-hexagon

## Summary
KH-9 Hexagon was a series of U.S. reconnaissance satellites operated by the United States Air Force from 1971 to 1986. These satellites were designed to covertly collect photographic intelligence data for military and intelligence applications. The KH-9 Hexagon was notable for its large size and advanced imaging capabilities during the Cold War era.

## Key Facts
- First launched on June 15, 1971, and last operated in April 1986
- Mass of 11,400 kilograms (25,132 pounds)
- Manufactured by Lockheed Corporation (spacecraft) and PerkinElmer (payload)
- Powered by two solar arrays and batteries
- Also known by aliases including Big Bird, Keyhole 9, and HEXAGON
- Classified as a reconnaissance satellite and spacecraft model
- Country of origin: United States

## FAQs
### Q: What was the primary purpose of the KH-9 Hexagon satellites?
A: The KH-9 Hexagon satellites were designed for photographic reconnaissance, collecting high-resolution images of strategic locations for U.S. military and intelligence agencies during the Cold War.

### Q: Who operated the KH-9 Hexagon satellites?
A: The United States Air Force operated the KH-9 Hexagon satellites as part of the nation's reconnaissance satellite program.

### Q: How long was the KH-9 Hexagon program active?
A: The KH-9 Hexagon program operated for approximately 15 years, from its first flight in June 1971 until its retirement in April 1986.

## Why It Matters
The KH-9 Hexagon represented a significant advancement in U.S. reconnaissance capabilities during the Cold War. These satellites provided critical intelligence on Soviet military installations, missile sites, and other strategic targets without risking human pilots in hostile territory. The program's long operational life (1971-1986) and sophisticated imaging technology made it a cornerstone of American intelligence gathering during a tense period of global politics. The KH-9's ability to capture detailed photographic data from orbit helped shape U.S. military strategy and diplomatic negotiations throughout the latter half of the 20th century.

## Notable For
- Largest reconnaissance satellite ever deployed by the United States at the time
- Provided the highest-resolution photographic intelligence available during its operational period
- Operated for 15 years, making it one of the longest-running reconnaissance satellite programs
- Featured advanced film-return technology that allowed for high-quality image capture
- Played a crucial role in monitoring Soviet military capabilities during the Cold War

## Body
### Technical Specifications
The KH-9 Hexagon satellites weighed 11,400 kilograms and were powered by two solar arrays along with battery systems. The spacecraft was manufactured by Lockheed Corporation, while the payload was produced by PerkinElmer, demonstrating a collaboration between major aerospace contractors.

### Operational History
The program's first flight occurred on June 15, 1971, marking the beginning of a 15-year operational period that would see multiple launches. The final KH-9 mission was conducted in April 1986, after which the satellites were retired from service.

### Classification and Aliases
The KH-9 Hexagon is classified as a spacecraft model and is a subclass of reconnaissance satellites. It was known by several names throughout its service life, including "Big Bird," "Keyhole 9," and simply "HEXAGON," reflecting both its official designation and various code names used during development and operation.

### International Impact
As a product of the United States, the KH-9 Hexagon represented American technological superiority in space-based reconnaissance during the Cold War era. The satellites' ability to capture detailed photographic intelligence from orbit provided the U.S. with critical information about potential adversaries without the need for risky human reconnaissance missions.

## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/kh-9.htm)
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013