# MIDAS 12

> American early-warning satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q110115348](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q110115348)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/midas-12

## Summary
MIDAS 12 is an American early-warning satellite that was launched on October 5, 1966. It served as a component of the Missile Defense Alarm System and is classified as a reconnaissance satellite.

## Key Facts
- MIDAS 12 is an American early-warning satellite.
- It was launched on October 5, 1966.
- The launch vehicle used for MIDAS 12 was the Atlas SLV-3 Agena-D.
- MIDAS 12 is also known by its alias, Military Defense Alarm System 12.
- It is part of the broader Missile Defense Alarm System.
- Its COSPAR ID is 1966-089A.
- MIDAS 12 is classified as a reconnaissance satellite.
- Its SCN (Satellite Catalog Number) is 02481.

## FAQs
### Q: What is MIDAS 12?
A: MIDAS 12 is an American early-warning satellite. It was launched in 1966 as part of the Missile Defense Alarm System, designed to detect potential threats.

### Q: When was MIDAS 12 launched?
A: MIDAS 12 was launched on October 5, 1966. It was carried into space by an Atlas SLV-3 Agena-D launch vehicle.

### Q: What type of satellite is MIDAS 12?
A: MIDAS 12 is an early-warning satellite. It is also classified as a reconnaissance satellite, which means it was designed to covertly collect data for intelligence or military applications.

### Q: What does MIDAS stand for in MIDAS 12?
A: MIDAS is an acronym for Missile Defense Alarm System. MIDAS 12 is also known by its full alias, Military Defense Alarm System 12.

## Why It Matters
MIDAS 12 holds significant importance as an American early-warning satellite, playing a critical role in national defense and intelligence gathering during its operational period. As an integral component of the Missile Defense Alarm System, its fundamental purpose was to detect potential threats, specifically those that would necessitate an early alert. This capability provided crucial time for strategic assessment and response, which was paramount for national security. Furthermore, its classification as a reconnaissance satellite underscores its advanced capability to covertly collect data. Such intelligence is vital for military applications, offering insights into global activities and potential adversaries. The deployment of satellites like MIDAS 12 was instrumental in the evolution of space-based surveillance, establishing foundational capabilities for monitoring and maintaining strategic awareness. These systems are essential for providing advanced warning of potential aggressions, thereby contributing directly to the defense posture of the United States.

## Notable For
- Being an American early-warning satellite.
- Its launch on October 5, 1966, using an Atlas SLV-3 Agena-D vehicle.
- Being a component of the Missile Defense Alarm System.
- Its classification as a reconnaissance satellite, indicating its intelligence-gathering role.
- Also known by the alias Military Defense Alarm System 12.

## Body

### Overview
MIDAS 12 is identified as an American early-warning satellite. It is also known by its alias, Military Defense Alarm System 12. The satellite was a component of the broader Missile Defense Alarm System.

### Launch Details
MIDAS 12 was launched on October 5, 1966. The launch vehicle utilized for its deployment was the Atlas SLV-3 Agena-D, which is a type of American expendable launch system.

### Classification and Purpose
MIDAS 12 is classified as a reconnaissance satellite. Reconnaissance satellites are designed to covertly collect data for intelligence or military applications. Its primary role as an early-warning satellite suggests its function in detecting potential threats.

### Identifiers
The COSPAR ID for MIDAS 12 is 1966-089A. Its SCN (Satellite Catalog Number) is 02481.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report