# SAR-Lupe 5

> German reconnaissance satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q111496959](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q111496959)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/sar-lupe-5

## Summary
SAR-Lupe 5 is a German reconnaissance satellite launched in 2008 as part of the SAR-Lupe military satellite system. Operated by the Bundeswehr, it collects intelligence data from low Earth orbit using synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: July 22, 2008, at 02:40:09 UTC from Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 132.
- **Mass**: 770 kilograms.
- **Operator**: Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces).
- **Manufacturer**: OHB System AG.
- **Launch Vehicle**: Kosmos-3M rocket (Soviet/Russian origin).
- **Orbit**: Low Earth orbit.
- **Part of**: SAR-Lupe, Germany’s military reconnaissance satellite system.
- **Preceded by**: SAR-Lupe 4.
- **COMPAR ID**: 2008-036A.
- **Spacecraft Bus**: SmartLEO.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the purpose of SAR-Lupe 5?
A: SAR-Lupe 5 is a reconnaissance satellite designed to covertly collect intelligence data for military applications using synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology.

### Q: When was SAR-Lupe 5 launched?
A: It was launched on July 22, 2008, from Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 132 in Russia.

### Q: Who operates SAR-Lupe 5?
A: The satellite is operated by the Bundeswehr, the German Armed Forces.

### Q: What rocket launched SAR-Lupe 5?
A: It was launched using a Kosmos-3M rocket, a Soviet/Russian launch vehicle.

### Q: What is the mass of SAR-Lupe 5?
A: The satellite has a mass of 770 kilograms.

## Why It Matters
SAR-Lupe 5 is a critical component of Germany’s military reconnaissance capabilities, providing high-resolution imagery and intelligence data from space. As part of the SAR-Lupe system, it enhances Germany’s ability to monitor global security threats, support military operations, and gather strategic intelligence. The use of synthetic aperture radar allows it to operate independently of weather conditions or daylight, ensuring continuous surveillance. This satellite system represents Germany’s investment in autonomous space-based reconnaissance, reducing reliance on allied intelligence sources and strengthening national defense.

## Notable For
- **First German Military SAR Satellite**: Part of Germany’s first dedicated military reconnaissance satellite system.
- **High-Resolution Imaging**: Uses synthetic aperture radar for detailed, all-weather surveillance.
- **Autonomous Operation**: Enhances Germany’s independent intelligence-gathering capabilities.
- **Precision Launch**: Launched with a Kosmos-3M rocket, demonstrating international collaboration in space technology.
- **Lightweight Design**: Weighs 770 kg, optimized for efficient deployment and operation.

## Body
### Overview
SAR-Lupe 5 is a German reconnaissance satellite designed for military intelligence purposes. It is the fifth satellite in the SAR-Lupe system, which consists of five identical satellites operating in low Earth orbit.

### Launch and Deployment
- **Launch Date**: July 22, 2008, at 02:40:09 UTC.
- **Launch Site**: Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 132, Russia.
- **Launch Vehicle**: Kosmos-3M rocket (serial number 53752-101 SL).
- **Orbit**: Low Earth orbit, optimized for reconnaissance missions.

### Technical Specifications
- **Mass**: 770 kilograms.
- **Spacecraft Bus**: SmartLEO, manufactured by OHB System AG.
- **Payload**: Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) for high-resolution imaging.
- **Operator**: Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces).

### Mission and Capabilities
- **Primary Function**: Covert data collection for military intelligence.
- **All-Weather Operation**: SAR technology allows imaging regardless of weather or lighting conditions.
- **Part of SAR-Lupe System**: Works in conjunction with four other satellites to provide comprehensive coverage.

### Historical Context
- **Predecessor**: SAR-Lupe 4, launched earlier in the same system.
- **Successor**: None specified; SAR-Lupe 5 is the final satellite in the original SAR-Lupe constellation.
- **International Collaboration**: Launched using a Russian Kosmos-3M rocket, highlighting cross-border cooperation in space missions.

## Schema Markup
```json
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "Thing",
  "name": "SAR-Lupe 5",
  "description": "German reconnaissance satellite launched in 2008 as part of the SAR-Lupe military satellite system.",
  "sameAs": ["https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q33244"],
  "additionalType": "ReconnaissanceSatellite"
}

## References

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