# UFO 11

> American military geostationary communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q111497455](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q111497455)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ufo-11

## Summary
UFO 11 is an American military geostationary communications satellite, launched on December 18, 2003. It is part of the UHF Follow-On series and was designed to provide telecommunications services for military purposes. The satellite operates in a geostationary orbit.

## Key Facts
*   UFO 11 is an American military geostationary communications satellite.
*   It was launched on December 18, 2003, at 02:30 UTC.
*   The satellite is also known by its aliases USA 174, UHF Follow-On 11, and UHF F/O 11.
*   UFO 11 is part of the UHF Follow-On satellite series.
*   It was launched from Cape Canaveral Launch Complex 36.
*   The launch vehicle used was an Atlas IIIB rocket, specifically the AC-203 variant.
*   Its COSPAR ID is 2003-057A and its NSSDCA ID is 2003-057A.
*   The satellite's SCN (Satellite Catalog Number) is 28117.

## FAQs
### Q: What is UFO 11?
A: UFO 11 is an American military geostationary communications satellite. It was launched in 2003 as part of the UHF Follow-On series to provide telecommunications services for military use.

### Q: When was UFO 11 launched?
A: UFO 11 was launched on December 18, 2003, at 02:30 UTC. The launch took place from Cape Canaveral Launch Complex 36.

### Q: What was the purpose of UFO 11?
A: UFO 11's purpose was to serve as a military communications satellite. It was designed to provide telecommunications capabilities, operating from a geostationary orbit.

### Q: What launch vehicle was used for UFO 11?
A: UFO 11 was launched using an Atlas IIIB expendable launch system. The specific vehicle used was designated AC-203.

## Why It Matters
UFO 11 plays a critical role in maintaining secure and reliable communication channels for the American military. As a geostationary communications satellite, it provides continuous coverage over a specific area of the Earth, which is essential for global military operations, command and control, and intelligence gathering. Its position in geostationary orbit allows ground terminals to maintain constant contact without needing to track the satellite, simplifying communication infrastructure. As part of the UHF Follow-On series, UFO 11 contributed to a robust network designed to support tactical and strategic military communications, ensuring that forces on the ground, at sea, and in the air can communicate effectively across vast distances. The longevity and reliability of such satellites are paramount for national security and defense capabilities, enabling coordinated responses and information sharing in critical situations.

## Notable For
*   Being the eleventh satellite in the UHF Follow-On series, a program dedicated to military communications.
*   Its launch on an Atlas IIIB rocket (AC-203), marking a specific deployment event for this launch system.
*   Its classification as an American military geostationary communications satellite, highlighting its dual function and strategic importance.

## Body

### Overview
UFO 11 is an American military geostationary communications satellite. It is identified by its aliases USA 174, UHF Follow-On 11, and UHF F/O 11. The satellite is a component of the broader UHF Follow-On program. Its primary function is to provide telecommunications services for military applications from a geostationary orbit.

### Launch Details
UFO 11 was launched on December 18, 2003, at 02:30 UTC. The launch originated from Cape Canaveral Launch Complex 36. The satellite was carried into orbit by an Atlas IIIB expendable launch system, specifically the AC-203 variant. This launch event is recorded as a significant event in its operational history.

### Identifiers and Classifications
*   **SCN (Satellite Catalog Number):** 28117
*   **COSPAR ID:** 2003-057A
*   **NSSDCA ID:** 2003-057A
*   **Aliases:** USA 174, UHF Follow-On 11, UHF F/O 11
*   **Part of:** UHF Follow-On series
*   **Instance of:**
    *   Communications satellite
    *   Military satellite
    *   Geostationary satellite

### Related Entities
*   **Military satellite:** An artificial satellite used for military purposes.
*   **Communications satellite:** An artificial satellite designed for telecommunications.
*   **Geostationary satellite:** A satellite in geostationary orbit.
*   **Atlas IIIB:** An American expendable launch system.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report