Israel launched the Ofek 10 spy satellite from the Palmachim base in central Israel during the night. Only in the coming hours will it be known if the launch was successful and if the satellite has moved into its correct orbit. The satellite was sent to space by the Shavit launcher, which is operated by two main motors manufactured by Israel Military Industries Ltd. (IMI).
Once the satellite was in orbit, it successfully underwent a series of tests to confirm its serviceability and accurate performance and it has already begun to transmit images. The Ofek 10 contains the most advanced imaging equipment based on radar that can photograph at night and in any weather including the cloudiest conditions, and this distinguishes it from previous satellites. The launch was carried out by the ministry of defense and Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd. (IAI) (TASE: ARSP.B1).
This is the sixth spy satellite launched by Israel and it will allow Israel to conduct unlimited surveillance of developments throughout the Middle East and beyond.
Ofek 10 joins Ofek 9 in space. Ofek 9, which was launched in June 2010, is an imaging and intelligence gathering satellite developed by IAI and costing $300 million. Ofek 9 has sent back exceptional quality images and it is able to identify objects just dozens of centimeters in size. This is technology possessed by very few countries around the world.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on April 10, 2014
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