# Ofeq-4

> Israeli reconnaissance satellite destroyed in a launch failure

**Wikidata**: [Q16500034](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q16500034)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ofeq-4

## Summary
Ofeq-4 was an Israeli reconnaissance satellite that was destroyed during a launch failure on January 22, 1998. It was part of Israel's Ofeq satellite program, designed for covert intelligence and military data collection.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: January 22, 1998, at 12:56 UTC from Palmachim Airbase.
- **Launch Vehicle**: Shavit-1, a small-lift launch vehicle.
- **Mass**: 189 kg at launch.
- **Operator**: Israel Defense Forces, specifically the Visual Intelligence Division.
- **Manufacturer**: Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd.
- **Orbit**: Intended for a retrograde orbit.
- **Power Source**: Spacecraft solar array with 2 panels.
- **Predecessor**: Ofeq-3.
- **Successor**: Ofeq-5.
- **Significant Event**: Destroyed in a launch failure on January 22, 1998.

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of Ofeq-4?
A: Ofeq-4 was a reconnaissance satellite designed to covertly collect data for intelligence and military applications.

### Q: When and where was Ofeq-4 launched?
A: Ofeq-4 was launched on January 22, 1998, at 12:56 UTC from Palmachim Airbase.

### Q: What happened to Ofeq-4?
A: Ofeq-4 was destroyed in a launch failure on January 22, 1998.

### Q: Who operated Ofeq-4?
A: Ofeq-4 was operated by the Israel Defense Forces, specifically the Visual Intelligence Division.

### Q: What was the launch vehicle for Ofeq-4?
A: The launch vehicle for Ofeq-4 was the Shavit-1, a small-lift launch vehicle.

## Why It Matters
Ofeq-4 is significant as part of Israel's efforts to develop and deploy reconnaissance satellites for intelligence and military purposes. Although it was destroyed in a launch failure, the Ofeq program has been crucial for Israel's national security and technological advancements in space. The failure of Ofeq-4 highlights the challenges and risks associated with space launches and the importance of continuous improvement in launch technologies. The Ofeq program has contributed to Israel's capabilities in gathering intelligence and monitoring activities in the region, enhancing its strategic position.

## Notable For
- **Firsts**: Part of Israel's pioneering efforts in reconnaissance satellite technology.
- **Unique Traits**: Designed for covert data collection in a retrograde orbit.
- **Technological Advancements**: Utilized a spacecraft solar array with 2 panels for power.
- **Strategic Importance**: Operated by the Israel Defense Forces for intelligence and military applications.
- **Launch Failure**: Notable for its destruction during launch, highlighting the risks of space missions.

## Body
### Overview
Ofeq-4 was an Israeli reconnaissance satellite intended for covert data collection for intelligence and military applications. It was part of the Ofeq satellite program, which has been instrumental in Israel's space and defense capabilities.

### Launch Details
- **Date and Time**: January 22, 1998, at 12:56 UTC.
- **Location**: Palmachim Airbase.
- **Launch Vehicle**: Shavit-1, a small-lift launch vehicle.
- **Outcome**: The launch failed, resulting in the destruction of the satellite.

### Technical Specifications
- **Mass**: 189 kg at launch.
- **Power Source**: Spacecraft solar array with 2 panels.
- **Orbit**: Intended for a retrograde orbit.
- **Manufacturer**: Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd.
- **Operator**: Israel Defense Forces, Visual Intelligence Division.

### Program Context
- **Predecessor**: Ofeq-3.
- **Successor**: Ofeq-5.
- **Program**: Part of the Ofeq satellite program, which aims to enhance Israel's reconnaissance and intelligence capabilities.

### Significance
The Ofeq program, including Ofeq-4, represents Israel's efforts to develop advanced satellite technology for national security purposes. Despite the failure of Ofeq-4, the program has continued to evolve, contributing to Israel's strategic advantages in intelligence gathering and monitoring.

## Schema Markup
```json
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "Thing",
  "name": "Ofeq-4",
  "description": "Israeli reconnaissance satellite destroyed in a launch failure",
  "sameAs": ["https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367"]
}

## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/ofeq-3.htm)
2. Jonathan's Space Report