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Israel Receives First Images from Ofek 16 Satellite
A digital rendering of the Ofek-16 satellite in orbit around the Earth. (Israel Defense Ministry)

Israel Receives First Images from Ofek 16 Satellite

One week following the successful launch of the Ofek 16 satellite into space, the engineering teams of the Space Administration in the Israeli Defense Ministry’s Directorate of Defense Research and Development (DDR&D), and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), have operated the satellite’s observation camera for the first time. The high-quality images were received overnight between Monday and Tuesday at an IAI control station in the central Israeli city of Yehud.

Since the launch on July 6, 2020, IAI and Defense Ministry teams have conducted a series of preplanned tests during which all of the satellite’s systems and subsystems were activated in a gradual and controlled manner. Upon completion of the process, the satellite’s camera was also activated successfully. In the coming weeks, engineering teams will complete the rigorous tests and prepare the satellite for operational use.

The Ofek 16 satellite is an electro-optical observation satellite with advanced capabilities. It is equipped with a high-quality camera developed and manufactured by Elbit Systems. In the coming weeks, following the completion of the “in-orbit testing” process conducted by the DDR&D, IAI and the Israel Defense Forces, the Defense Ministry will transfer responsibilities to Unit 9900 of the IDF’s Intelligence Corps, after which the satellite will be declared operational.

The Space Administration has led the development and production of the satellite and its launcher. IAI is the prime contractor, having assigned the program to its Systems, Missiles and Space Group, together with the MLM division, which is responsible for the development of the launcher. Elbit Systems developed the satellite’s payload. Rafael Advanced Systems and Tomer, a government-owned defense company, developed the launch engines. Additional companies have participated in this program, including Rokar and Cielo. Lastly, various IDF officials, primarily from the Intelligence Corps and Air Force, have also been deeply involved in the satellite development process.

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