# USA-243

> American military satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q13392599](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q13392599)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USA-243)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/usa-243

## Summary
USA-243 is an American military communications satellite, also known by its alias WGS-5. It is an integral component of the Wideband Global SATCOM system, providing telecommunications capabilities. The satellite is operated by the United States Air Force.

## Key Facts
*   USA-243 is also known as WGS-5.
*   It is an American military communications satellite.
*   The satellite was launched on May 25, 2013.
*   USA-243 is operated by the United States Air Force.
*   It is part of the Wideband Global SATCOM system.
*   The launch took place from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 37.
*   Its launch vehicle was a Delta IV Medium+(5,4).
*   The manufacturer of USA-243 is Boeing.
*   USA-243 is designed for geostationary orbit.
*   Its SCN is 39168 and its COSPAR ID is 2013-024A.

## FAQs
### Q: What is USA-243?
A: USA-243 is an American military communications satellite. It is also known as WGS-5 and is a component of the Wideband Global SATCOM system.

### Q: When was USA-243 launched?
A: USA-243 was launched on May 25, 2013. The launch occurred from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 37.

### Q: Who operates USA-243?
A: USA-243 is operated by the United States Air Force. It is a military satellite designed for telecommunications.

### Q: What type of satellite is USA-243?
A: USA-243 is classified as a communications satellite. It is specifically designed for telecommunications purposes within the Wideband Global SATCOM system.

### Q: What was the launch vehicle for USA-243?
A: The launch vehicle used for USA-243 was a Delta IV Medium+(5,4).

## Why It Matters
USA-243 is significant as an American military communications satellite, playing a crucial role within the Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) system. As part of this system, it contributes to providing essential telecommunications capabilities for the United States Air Force. These capabilities are vital for military operations, enabling secure and reliable communication across various global theaters. The WGS system, including satellites like USA-243, ensures that military personnel have access to high-bandwidth communication services, which are critical for command and control, intelligence gathering, and logistical support. Its operation by the United States Air Force underscores its strategic importance in maintaining national security and supporting military objectives worldwide.

## Notable For
*   Being an integral component of the Wideband Global SATCOM system, providing military telecommunications.
*   Its operation by the United States Air Force, highlighting its strategic military importance.
*   Its launch aboard a Delta IV Medium+(5,4) vehicle from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 37.
*   Its classification as a communications satellite, specifically designed for telecommunications.

## Body

### Identification
*   **Primary Name:** USA-243
*   **Aliases:** WGS-5
*   **SCN:** 39168
*   **COSPAR ID:** 2013-024A
*   **Freebase ID:** /m/0vpxx1v
*   **Wikipedia Title:** USA-243

### Classification and Purpose
*   **Type:** Communications satellite
*   **Description:** American military satellite
*   **Part of:** Wideband Global SATCOM system
*   **Designed Orbit:** Geostationary orbit

### Operational Details
*   **Operator:** United States Air Force
*   **Manufacturer:** Boeing

### Launch Details
*   **Launch Date:** May 25, 2013
*   **Launch Site:** Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 37
*   **Launch Vehicle:** Delta IV Medium+(5,4)
*   **Significant Event:** Rocket launch on May 25, 2013, from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 37.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013