# Ofeq-9

> Israeli reconnaissance satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q1770356](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1770356)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ofeq-9)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ofeq-9

## Summary
Ofeq-9 is an Israeli reconnaissance satellite launched in 2010, part of the Ofeq series. It was launched from Palmachim Airbase using a Shavit-2 rocket and operated by the Israel Defense Forces' Visual Intelligence Division. The satellite weighed 189 kilograms at launch and was powered by two spacecraft solar arrays.

## Key Facts
- **Launch date**: June 22, 2010, at 19:00 UTC from Palmachim Airbase.
- **Launch vehicle**: Shavit-2, specifically the 8th flight of this rocket.
- **Mass**: 189 kilograms at launch weight.
- **Operator**: Israel Defense Forces, Visual Intelligence Division.
- **Orbit**: Retrograde orbit.
- **Power source**: Two spacecraft solar arrays.
- **Manufacturer**: Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd.
- **Predecessor**: TecSAR-1.
- **Successor**: Ofeq-10.
- **Country of origin**: Israel.
- **COSPAR ID**: 2010-031A.
- **NSSDCA ID**: 2010-031A.

## FAQs
### Q: What type of satellite is Ofeq-9?
A: Ofeq-9 is a reconnaissance satellite designed for intelligence and military applications.

### Q: Who operates Ofeq-9?
A: Ofeq-9 is operated by the Israel Defense Forces' Visual Intelligence Division.

### Q: What was the launch vehicle for Ofeq-9?
A: Ofeq-9 was launched using the Shavit-2 rocket, specifically the 8th flight of this vehicle.

### Q: What is the significance of Ofeq-9's orbit?
A: Ofeq-9 operates in a retrograde orbit, which is a unique characteristic of its mission.

### Q: What preceded and succeeded Ofeq-9?
A: Ofeq-9 followed the TecSAR-1 satellite and was succeeded by Ofeq-10.

## Why It Matters
Ofeq-9 is part of Israel's Ofeq satellite series, which has been instrumental in providing critical reconnaissance data for the Israel Defense Forces. The satellite's launch and operation demonstrate Israel's capability in developing and deploying advanced reconnaissance technology. Its retrograde orbit and precise imaging capabilities enhance Israel's strategic intelligence gathering. The Ofeq program has evolved over time, with each satellite incorporating improvements in technology and mission capabilities. Ofeq-9's successful deployment underscores Israel's commitment to maintaining a robust space-based reconnaissance system, supporting national security and defense objectives.

## Notable For
- **First in series**: Ofeq-9 is part of Israel's Ofeq satellite series, which began with Ofeq-1 in 2007.
- **Retrograde orbit**: The satellite's unique retrograde orbit provides distinct advantages for its reconnaissance missions.
- **Operational longevity**: The Ofeq series has demonstrated a track record of successful satellite deployments and operations.
- **Technological advancement**: Each Ofeq satellite represents advancements in reconnaissance technology and mission capabilities.
- **Strategic importance**: The Ofeq program is crucial for Israel's strategic intelligence and defense capabilities.

## Body
### Overview
Ofeq-9 is the ninth satellite in Israel's Ofeq series, designed for reconnaissance and intelligence gathering. It was launched on June 22, 2010, from Palmachim Airbase using the Shavit-2 rocket. The satellite weighed 189 kilograms at launch and was powered by two spacecraft solar arrays. Ofeq-9 operates in a retrograde orbit, providing unique capabilities for its mission.

### Launch and Deployment
The launch of Ofeq-9 marked the 8th flight of the Shavit-2 rocket, which has been a key component of Israel's space program. The satellite was successfully deployed into its designated orbit, continuing the Ofeq series' legacy of providing critical reconnaissance data.

### Operational Details
Ofeq-9 is operated by the Israel Defense Forces' Visual Intelligence Division. It follows the TecSAR-1 satellite and is succeeded by Ofeq-10, indicating its position within the Ofeq series. The satellite's retrograde orbit and advanced imaging capabilities enhance its effectiveness in intelligence gathering.

### Technological Specifications
- **Mass**: 189 kilograms at launch weight.
- **Power source**: Two spacecraft solar arrays.
- **Manufacturer**: Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd.
- **Orbit**: Retrograde orbit.
- **Identifiers**: COSPAR ID 2010-031A, NSSDCA ID 2010-031A.

### Significance and Impact
Ofeq-9 plays a crucial role in Israel's strategic intelligence and defense capabilities. Its successful deployment and operation contribute to the Ofeq series' reputation for technological advancement and mission success. The satellite's retrograde orbit and precise imaging capabilities provide distinct advantages for its reconnaissance missions.

## Schema Markup
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  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "Thing",
  "name": "Ofeq-9",
  "description": "Israeli reconnaissance satellite launched in 2010, part of the Ofeq series.",
  "sameAs": ["https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q36608", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ofeq-9"],
  "additionalType": "ReconnaissanceSatellite"
}

## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/ofeq-5.htm)
2. Jonathan's Space Report