The Ofek 19 satellite
The dramatic nighttime launch of Ofek 19—Israel’s latest reconnaissance satellite—soaring skyward aboard a three-stage Shavit rocket. Let’s unpack what media outlets and official sources are reporting about this significant technological leap. Key Highlights from Media Reports 1. Launch Details & Technical Overview When & how: Ofek 19 lifted off on the night of September 2, 2025, around 22:30 IST, from a secure site within central Israel using a three-stage Shavit launcher. It successfully entered orbit, started transmitting, and began a series of initial tests. Orbit specifics: Positioned approximately 500 km above Earth, the satellite completes an orbit every 90 minutes. Advanced imaging: Ofek 19 is equipped with synthetic aperture radar (SAR) enabling day-and-night, all-weather, high-resolution reconnaissance. It’s capable of detecting objects as small as 0.5 m across. 2. Strategic Importance & Regional Surveillance Expanding capabiliti...