# USA-231

> artificial satellite launched in 2011

**Wikidata**: [Q2008036](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q2008036)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USA-231)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/usa-231

## Summary  
USA-231 is a military satellite launched on June 30, 2011, aboard a Minotaur I rocket from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport. It was manufactured by Alliant Techsystems and is classified as a military satellite, indicating its use for defense-related purposes.  

## Key Facts  
- **Launch Date**: June 30, 2011 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Minotaur I ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Launch Site**: Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport Launch Pad 0 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Manufacturer**: Alliant Techsystems ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q328))  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2011-029A ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q48183))  
- **Satellite Classification**: Military satellite ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q48183))  
- **SCN (Satellite Catalog Number)**: 37728 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q328))  

## FAQs  
### Q: What type of satellite is USA-231?  
A: USA-231 is a military satellite, meaning it is used for defense-related purposes such as reconnaissance or communications.  

### Q: When and where was USA-231 launched?  
A: It was launched on June 30, 2011, from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport Launch Pad 0 aboard a Minotaur I rocket.  

### Q: Who manufactured USA-231?  
A: The satellite was manufactured by Alliant Techsystems, a company known for its aerospace and defense technology.  

## Why It Matters  
USA-231 represents a critical asset in military satellite operations, providing capabilities essential for national security, such as surveillance or secure communications. Its launch underscores the ongoing reliance on space-based systems for defense strategies. The use of the Minotaur I rocket, a proven launch vehicle, highlights the importance of reliable access to space for military payloads. As part of a broader network of military satellites, USA-231 contributes to the U.S. military's ability to monitor threats and maintain operational superiority.  

## Notable For  
- **Military Application**: Designed explicitly for defense purposes, distinguishing it from civilian or scientific satellites.  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Deployed using the Minotaur I, a launch vehicle with a strong track record for reliability.  
- **Manufacturer**: Built by Alliant Techsystems, a key player in aerospace and defense technology.  

## Body  
### Launch Details  
- **Date**: June 30, 2011  
- **Vehicle**: Minotaur I  
- **Site**: Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport Launch Pad 0  

### Technical Specifications  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2011-029A  
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN)**: 37728  

### Classification and Purpose  
- **Type**: Military satellite  
- **Manufacturer**: Alliant Techsystems  

### Significant Events  
- **Rocket Launch**: Occurred on June 30, 2011, at the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report