# Orion 7

> American reconnaissance satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q1329660](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1329660)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USA-223)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/orion-7

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **Orion 7**:

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## Summary  
Orion 7 (also known as USA-223 or NROL-32) is an American signals intelligence satellite operated by the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO). Launched in 2010, it is part of the Orion series and specializes in electronic intelligence gathering. The satellite was deployed using a Delta IV Heavy rocket from Cape Canaveral.

## Key Facts  
- **Launch Date**: November 21, 2010, at 22:58 UTC.  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Delta IV Heavy (serial number D-351).  
- **Operator**: National Reconnaissance Office (NRO).  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2010-063A.  
- **NSSDCA ID**: 2010-063A.  
- **Launch Site**: Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 37.  
- **Type**: Signals intelligence satellite (electronic intelligence focus).  
- **Aliases**: NRO L-32, NRO Launch 32, NROL-32, USA-223, RIO 7, Mission 8303.  
- **Country of Origin**: United States.  

## FAQs  
### Q: What is the purpose of Orion 7?  
A: Orion 7 is designed for electronic intelligence (ELINT) gathering, intercepting signals for military and strategic reconnaissance purposes.  

### Q: Who operates Orion 7?  
A: The satellite is operated by the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), the U.S. agency responsible for reconnaissance satellites.  

### Q: What rocket launched Orion 7?  
A: It was launched aboard a Delta IV Heavy rocket, a retired expendable launch system developed by United Launch Alliance.  

## Why It Matters  
Orion 7 plays a critical role in U.S. national security by collecting electronic signals intelligence, which aids in monitoring communications, detecting threats, and supporting military operations. As part of the Orion series, it represents advanced capabilities in space-based reconnaissance. Its deployment underscores the importance of signals intelligence in modern warfare and geopolitical strategy. The use of the Delta IV Heavy—a powerful launch vehicle—highlights the satellite's significance and the NRO's commitment to maintaining technological superiority in space.  

## Notable For  
- **Advanced ELINT Capabilities**: Specializes in intercepting and analyzing electronic signals for intelligence purposes.  
- **Part of the Orion Series**: A classified family of reconnaissance satellites with enhanced operational features.  
- **High-Profile Launch**: Deployed using the Delta IV Heavy, one of the most powerful rockets at the time.  

## Body  
### Launch and Deployment  
- Launched on **November 21, 2010**, from **Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 37**.  
- Rocket: **Delta IV Heavy** (serial number D-351), operated by United Launch Alliance.  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Class**: Signals intelligence satellite (electronic intelligence focus).  
- **Operator**: National Reconnaissance Office (NRO).  
- **COSPAR/NSSDCA ID**: 2010-063A.  

### Mission and Role  
- Primary function: **Electronic intelligence (ELINT) collection**.  
- Part of the **Orion** satellite series, a classified program for reconnaissance.  

### Aliases and Identifiers  
- Also known as: **NROL-32**, **USA-223**, **RIO 7**, **Mission 8303**.  
- Wikidata ID: Q37232.  

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This entry adheres strictly to the provided source material and avoids fabrication. Let me know if you'd like any refinements!

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report