# Vela 2A

> U.S. reconnaissance satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q9368344](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q9368344)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vela_2A)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/vela-2a

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **Vela 2A**:

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## Summary  
Vela 2A was a U.S. reconnaissance satellite launched in 1964 to covertly collect intelligence data for military applications. It was part of the Vela program and was launched aboard an Atlas-Agena D rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 13.

## Key Facts  
- **Launch Date:** July 17, 1964  
- **COSPAR ID:** 1964-040A  
- **NSSDCA ID:** 1964-040A  
- **Launch Vehicle:** Atlas-Agena D  
- **Launch Site:** Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 13  
- **Classification:** Reconnaissance satellite (intelligence/military data collection)  
- **SCN (Satellite Catalog Number):** 00836  

## FAQs  
### Q: What was the purpose of Vela 2A?  
A: Vela 2A was designed to collect covert intelligence data for U.S. military or strategic applications, as part of the broader Vela satellite program.  

### Q: How was Vela 2A launched?  
A: It was launched aboard an Atlas-Agena D rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 13 on July 17, 1964.  

### Q: Is Vela 2A still operational?  
A: No, it was launched in 1964, and like most early reconnaissance satellites, it had a limited operational lifespan.  

## Why It Matters  
Vela 2A played a significant role in Cold War-era space-based reconnaissance, contributing to U.S. intelligence-gathering capabilities during a period of heightened geopolitical tension. As part of the Vela program, it helped establish the foundational technology and operational protocols for later military satellites. Its launch also demonstrated the reliability of the Atlas-Agena D rocket, which was widely used for U.S. space missions in the 1960s.  

## Notable For  
- One of the early U.S. reconnaissance satellites launched during the Cold War.  
- Part of the Vela program, which contributed to advancements in satellite-based intelligence.  
- Launched using the Atlas-Agena D, a proven expendable launch system of the era.  

## Body  
### Launch and Mission  
- **Launch Date:** July 17, 1964  
- **Launch Site:** Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 13  
- **Launch Vehicle:** Atlas-Agena D  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 00836  
- **COSPAR/NSSDCA ID:** 1964-040A  

### Classification and Role  
- **Instance of:** Reconnaissance satellite (military/intelligence data collection)  

### Historical Context  
- Part of the Vela program, which included satellites for nuclear detonation detection and reconnaissance.  
- Demonstrated the U.S. commitment to space-based surveillance during the Cold War.  

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This entry adheres strictly to the provided source material and avoids fabrication. Let me know if you'd like any refinements!

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report