Satellite NROL 42

Atlas V launches NROL-42 spy satellite

Question: What type of satellite is US satellite NROL 42?
(a) Weather Satellite
(b) Spy satellite
(c) Telecommunication satellite
(d) None of these
Answer: (b)
Related Facts:

  • On September 23, 2017, the US’s ULA-United Launch Alliance launched the Spy Satellite NROL-42 (National Reconnaissance Office Launch-42) by Atlas V Rocket from the Vandenberg Air Force Base in California.
  • After the establishment of NRO Company in 2006, NROL-42 is the 25th mission, which ULA has launched for NRO.
  • ULA is a joint venture between Lockheed Martin and Boeing that specializes in the construction and launch of satellites.
  • This satellite will provide the Intelligence information to the US National Security Monitoring Office (NRO-National Reconnaissance Office).
  • This organization provides information related to national security to US leading intelligence agencies.
  • It has been launched in Molniya Orbit.

Reference:
https://www.space.com/38229-spy-satellite-nrol-42-launch.html
http://www.ulalaunch.com/atlas-v-to-launch-nrol42.aspx
https://spaceflightnow.com/2017/09/24/video-nrol-42-launch-aboard-the-atlas-5-rocket/
https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2017/09/atlas-v-preparing-to-launch-nrol-42/