# USA-269

> American military communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q28668946](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q28668946)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/usa-269

## Summary
USA-269 is an American military communications satellite launched on July 28, 2016, as part of the Satellite Data System. It was operated by the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) and launched aboard an Atlas V 421 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 41. The satellite is classified, with its primary mission details kept secret.

## Key Facts
- **Instance of**: Communications satellite and military satellite
- **Part of**: Satellite Data System, an American military satellite communication system
- **Sponsor/Operator**: National Reconnaissance Office (NRO)
- **Launch Date**: July 28, 2016, at 12:37 UTC
- **Launch Vehicle**: Atlas V 421 (AV-065)
- **Launch Site**: Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 41
- **Launch Contractor**: United Launch Alliance
- **COSPAR ID**: 2016-047A
- **NSSDCA ID**: 2016-047A
- **Aliases**: NRO Launch 61, NROL-61, L-61, Quasar 20
- **Country of Origin**: United States

## FAQs
### Q: What is the purpose of USA-269?
A: USA-269 is a classified military communications satellite, part of the Satellite Data System, designed for secure telecommunications. Its exact mission details are not publicly disclosed.

### Q: Who operates USA-269?
A: The satellite is operated by the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), a U.S. government agency responsible for reconnaissance satellites.

### Q: When was USA-269 launched?
A: USA-269 was launched on July 28, 2016, at 12:37 UTC from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 41.

### Q: What rocket launched USA-269?
A: The satellite was launched aboard an Atlas V 421 rocket (AV-065), provided by United Launch Alliance.

### Q: Is USA-269 part of a larger system?
A: Yes, USA-269 is part of the Satellite Data System, a U.S. military satellite communication network.

## Why It Matters
USA-269 plays a critical role in the U.S. military's secure communications infrastructure, ensuring encrypted and reliable data transmission for national security operations. As part of the Satellite Data System, it supports classified communications, intelligence gathering, and command-and-control functions. The satellite's launch and operation are conducted under strict secrecy, reflecting the sensitive nature of its mission. By maintaining a robust satellite network, the U.S. military can sustain global communications capabilities, even in contested environments. The National Reconnaissance Office's oversight ensures that the satellite meets stringent security and performance standards, reinforcing the U.S. government's ability to conduct covert operations and protect classified information.

## Notable For
- **Classified Mission**: USA-269 is one of many classified satellites operated by the NRO, with its exact capabilities and mission details kept secret.
- **Part of Satellite Data System**: It is integrated into a larger network of military communications satellites, enhancing secure data transmission.
- **Atlas V 421 Launch**: The satellite was launched using a highly reliable Atlas V rocket, demonstrating the ULA's expertise in military satellite deployments.
- **NRO Oversight**: Operated by the NRO, the satellite benefits from the agency's expertise in reconnaissance and secure communications.
- **Secure Telecommunications**: As a military communications satellite, it supports encrypted and high-priority data transmission for national defense.

## Body
### Mission and Classification
USA-269 is a classified military communications satellite, part of the Satellite Data System, which provides secure telecommunications for the U.S. government. The satellite's exact mission details are not publicly disclosed, but it is operated by the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), an agency responsible for reconnaissance satellites. The NRO's oversight ensures that the satellite meets stringent security and performance standards.

### Launch Details
The satellite was launched on July 28, 2016, at 12:37 UTC from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 41. It was deployed aboard an Atlas V 421 rocket (AV-065), provided by United Launch Alliance (ULA). The Atlas V 421 is a highly reliable launch vehicle, known for its success in military and intelligence satellite missions. The launch was conducted under the designation NRO Launch 61 (NROL-61), reflecting its classified nature.

### Technical Specifications
- **COSPAR ID**: 2016-047A
- **NSSDCA ID**: 2016-047A
- **Aliases**: NROL-61, L-61, Quasar 20
- **Country of Origin**: United States

### Significance
USA-269 is part of a broader network of military communications satellites that support secure data transmission for national security. Its launch and operation contribute to the U.S. military's ability to conduct covert operations and protect classified information. The satellite's integration into the Satellite Data System ensures that the U.S. government maintains robust communications capabilities, even in challenging environments. The NRO's oversight and the use of a reliable Atlas V rocket underscore the mission's importance in maintaining national defense infrastructure.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report