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Ofeq 3, 4
Ofeq 3 [IAI]
The Ofeq 3 series was the first generation of Israeli spy satellites.
Intended for surveillance of Israel's neighbours, the Ofeq series is unusual in having a retrograde orbit. This is due to the geographical location of Israel, which gives only an unobstructed launch path over the mediterranean sea. It is similar to the EROS-A civilian Earth observation satellite.
Ofeq 4 (which was possibly the prototype EROS-A satellite) was lost in an launch failure in early 1998.
These satellites were followed by the similar, but improved Ofeq 5 series.
| Nation: | Israel |
|---|---|
| Type / Application: | Reconnaissance, optical |
| Operator: | Tsahal |
| Contractors: | IAI |
| Equipment: | |
| Configuration: | OPSAT-1000 Bus |
| Propulsion: | |
| Power: | 2 deployable fixed solar arrays, batteries |
| Lifetime: | |
| Mass: | 189 kg |
| Orbit: | 729 km × 367 km, 143.3° |
| Satellite | COSPAR | Date | LS | Launch Vehicle | Remarks | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ofeq 3 | 1995-018A | 05.04.1995 | Pa | Shavit | ||
| Ofeq 4 | 1998-F01 | 23.01.1998 | Pa | F | Shavit |
Further Ofeq missions:
