# SAMOS 8
**Wikidata**: [Q9326023](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q9326023)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/samos-8

## Summary
SAMOS 8 was a reconnaissance satellite launched on June 17, 1962, from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 3 using an Atlas-Agena B launch vehicle. It was part of the United States' early satellite reconnaissance program designed to covertly collect intelligence data for military applications.

## Key Facts
- SAMOS 8 was launched on June 17, 1962
- It was launched from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 3
- It was launched using an Atlas-Agena B launch vehicle
- Its COSPAR ID is 1962-023A
- Its SCN is 00307
- Its Harvard designation is 1962 Psi 1
- It is classified as a reconnaissance satellite
- It has a sitelink count of 1
- It has Wikipedia content in Polish (pl)

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of SAMOS 8?
A: SAMOS 8 was a reconnaissance satellite designed to covertly collect intelligence data for military and intelligence applications.

### Q: When and where was SAMOS 8 launched?
A: SAMOS 8 was launched on June 17, 1962, from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 3.

### Q: What launch vehicle was used for SAMOS 8?
A: SAMOS 8 was launched using an Atlas-Agena B expendable launch system.

### Q: What is SAMOS 8's COSPAR ID?
A: SAMOS 8's COSPAR ID is 1962-023A.

## Why It Matters
SAMOS 8 represents an important milestone in the early development of satellite reconnaissance technology during the Cold War. As part of the United States' first generation of reconnaissance satellites, it contributed to the nation's ability to gather intelligence without risking pilots or violating foreign airspace. This capability fundamentally changed strategic intelligence gathering, providing policymakers with timely and accurate information about military activities and potential threats. The success of SAMOS and similar programs helped establish the foundation for modern satellite reconnaissance systems that continue to play critical roles in national security and international relations.

## Notable For
- Part of the first generation of United States reconnaissance satellites
- Launched during the early Cold War period when satellite reconnaissance was a critical national security priority
- Used the Atlas-Agena B launch vehicle, which was a significant technological achievement for the era
- Contributed to the development of covert intelligence gathering capabilities from space

## Body
### Mission Overview
SAMOS 8 was a reconnaissance satellite launched as part of the United States' early satellite reconnaissance program. The satellite was designed to covertly collect intelligence data for military and intelligence applications.

### Technical Specifications
- COSPAR ID: 1962-023A
- SCN: 00307
- Harvard designation: 1962 Psi 1
- Launch date: June 17, 1962
- Launch site: Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 3
- Launch vehicle: Atlas-Agena B

### Classification
- Instance of: reconnaissance satellite
- Class: reconnaissance satellite [class] — satellite that covertly collects data for intelligence or military applications
- Launch vehicle class: Atlas-Agena B [class] — type of expendable launch system

### Digital Presence
- Sitelink count: 1
- Wikipedia languages: pl
- Wolfram Language entity code: Entity["Satellite", "00307"]

### Historical Context
SAMOS 8 was launched during the Cold War, a period when satellite reconnaissance was a critical national security priority for the United States. The program was part of the broader effort to develop space-based intelligence gathering capabilities that would provide the U.S. with strategic advantages over the Soviet Union.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. [Source](https://nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/nmc/spacecraftDisplay.do?id=1962-023A)