# UFO 9

> satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q111497942](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q111497942)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ufo-9

## Summary
UFO 9, also known as USA 140, is a satellite launched on October 20, 1998, as part of the UHF Follow-On program. It was deployed via an Atlas II rocket and serves as an artificial satellite for communications purposes. Its primary role is to support military communications as part of a broader satellite constellation.

## Key Facts
- **SCN Number**: 25501 (reference: Q6272367).  
- **Aliases**: USA 140.  
- **Program Affiliation**: Part of the UHF Follow-On satellite series.  
- **COSPAR ID**: 1998-058A.  
- **Launch Date**: October 20, 1998 (reference: Q6272367).  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Atlas II expendable launch system (reference: Q6272367).  
- **Classification**: Artificial satellite.  
- **Wolfram Language Entity Code**: Entity["Satellite", "25501"].  

## FAQs
### Q: What is UFO 9?  
A: UFO 9 is a communications satellite launched in 1998 as part of the U.S. military's UHF Follow-On program, designed to provide secure communication services.  

### Q: When was UFO 9 launched?  
A: It was launched on October 20, 1998, using an Atlas II rocket.  

### Q: What is the purpose of UFO 9?  
A: The satellite supports military communications as part of a network of UHF Follow-On satellites, ensuring global connectivity for operational needs.  

## Why It Matters  
UFO 9 plays a critical role in military communications infrastructure, enabling secure and reliable data transmission for U.S. forces worldwide. As part of the UHF Follow-On program, it contributes to a constellation of satellites designed to enhance command and control capabilities, particularly in remote or hostile environments. Its launch in 1998 reflects the ongoing need for advanced communication systems in national security operations, ensuring continuity and interoperability with existing networks. This satellite underscores the reliance on space-based assets for modern military logistics and strategic coordination.

## Notable For  
- **Program Affiliation**: Integral to the UHF Follow-On series, a key U.S. military satellite constellation.  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Deployed via the Atlas II rocket, a proven expendable launch system.  
- **Dual Designation**: Recognized by both the SCN (25501) and COSPAR ID (1998-058A) tracking systems.  
- **Longevity**: Operational since 1998, demonstrating extended service life in orbit.  

## Body  
### Launch Details  
- **Date**: October 20, 1998.  
- **Vehicle**: Atlas II, a U.S.-built expendable launch system.  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Identifier**: SCN 25501 (Satellite Catalog Number).  
- **COSPAR Designation**: 1998-058A, assigned by the International Space Science Data Center.  

### Mission and Purpose  
- **Primary Role**: Military communications as part of the UHF Follow-On program.  
- **Function**: Provides ultra-high-frequency (UHF) bandwidth for secure voice, data, and telemetry services.  

### Identification  
- **Aliases**: USA 140 (U.S. designation).  
- **Wolfram Code**: Entity["Satellite", "25501"], enabling programmatic reference in computational knowledge engines.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report