# Ofeq-1

> Israeli technology demonstration satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q3880993](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q3880993)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ofeq-1

## Summary
Ofeq-1 was Israel's first domestically built technology demonstration satellite, launched in 1988 to test experimental spacecraft systems. It marked Israel's entry into spacefaring nations capable of independent satellite launches and operations.

## Key Facts
- Launched on **September 19, 1988**, at **09:31 UTC** from **Palmachim Airbase** using a **Shavit** rocket.
- Mass: **157 kg** at launch, with dimensions of **2.3 m (height) × 1.2 m (diameter)**.
- Operated by the **Israel Space Agency** and manufactured by **Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd**.
- Powered by a **spacecraft solar array** generating **246 W** (beginning of life) and **53 W** (end of life).
- Entered a **retrograde orbit** and decayed on **January 14, 1989**.
- Also known as **Ofek-1**, **Oz 1**, or **Horizon 1**.
- Part of the **Ofeq satellite series**, succeeded by **Ofeq-2**.

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of Ofeq-1?
A: Ofeq-1 was a **technology demonstration satellite** designed to test experimental spacecraft systems, marking Israel's first independent satellite launch.

### Q: When and where was Ofeq-1 launched?
A: It was launched on **September 19, 1988**, from **Palmachim Airbase** in Israel using a **Shavit rocket**.

### Q: How long did Ofeq-1 remain in orbit?
A: Ofeq-1 operated for approximately **four months**, decaying from orbit on **January 14, 1989**.

### Q: Who built and operated Ofeq-1?
A: It was manufactured by **Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd** and operated by the **Israel Space Agency**.

### Q: What happened to Ofeq-1 after its mission?
A: The satellite underwent **atmospheric entry** and decayed on **January 14, 1989**, ending its operational life.

## Why It Matters
Ofeq-1 was a landmark achievement for Israel, demonstrating its capability to design, build, and launch satellites independently. As the country's first domestically produced satellite, it validated critical technologies for future space missions, including Earth observation and reconnaissance. The success of Ofeq-1 paved the way for subsequent satellites in the Ofeq series, which have played key roles in Israel's national security and scientific research. By proving Israel's spacefaring capabilities, Ofeq-1 also positioned the nation as a significant player in the global aerospace industry, fostering collaborations and advancements in satellite technology.

## Notable For
- **First Israeli satellite**: The first satellite entirely designed, built, and launched by Israel.
- **Independent launch capability**: Demonstrated Israel's ability to deploy satellites using its own **Shavit rocket**.
- **Short but impactful mission**: Operated for **four months**, proving key technologies for future missions.
- **Retrograde orbit**: Placed in a unique **retrograde orbit**, distinguishing it from typical satellite trajectories.
- **Foundation for Ofeq series**: Laid the groundwork for subsequent **Ofeq satellites**, which became integral to Israel's space program.

## Body
### Overview
Ofeq-1 was a **technology demonstration spacecraft** developed by Israel to test experimental satellite systems. It was part of the **Ofeq program**, a series of Israeli reconnaissance and technology satellites.

### Launch and Orbit
- **Launch Date**: September 19, 1988, at **09:31 UTC**.
- **Launch Site**: **Palmachim Airbase**, Israel.
- **Launch Vehicle**: **Shavit** (first flight of the Shavit rocket).
- **Orbit Type**: **Retrograde orbit**, unusual for satellites of its time.
- **Orbit Decay**: Re-entered Earth's atmosphere on **January 14, 1989**.

### Technical Specifications
- **Mass**: **157 kg** at launch.
- **Dimensions**:
  - **Height**: 2.3 meters.
  - **Diameter**: 1.2 meters.
- **Power Source**: **Spacecraft solar array** with:
  - **246 W** at beginning of life.
  - **53 W** at end of life.
- **Operator**: **Israel Space Agency**.
- **Manufacturer**: **Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd**.

### Mission and Significance
Ofeq-1 was primarily a **technology demonstrator**, testing systems for future Israeli satellites. Its successful launch and operation proved Israel's capability to develop and deploy satellites independently, a critical milestone for the nation's space program. The mission also provided valuable data for subsequent **Ofeq satellites**, which have been used for Earth observation and reconnaissance.

### Legacy
Ofeq-1 was followed by **Ofeq-2**, launched in **1990**, continuing the series' focus on technology demonstration and reconnaissance. The Ofeq program remains a cornerstone of Israel's space efforts, with later satellites achieving longer operational lifespans and enhanced capabilities.

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## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/ofeq-1.htm)
2. Jonathan's Space Report
3. [Source](https://nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/nmc/spacecraft/display.action?id=1988-087A)