Israel launches spy satellite into orbit

One of the satellite's tasks will be to keep track of developments in Iran and the potential development of nuclear weapons.

Israel successfully launched a new spy satellite, Ofek 7, overnight to Monday into orbit, Israeli media reported.

The satellite was launched from the Palmahim air force base and was to start sending high-quality pictures within a few days.

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The Israeli armed forces were reported as being "very content" with the launch.

Three years ago the launch of Ofek 6 failed and Israel was relying on Ofek 5, that has been orbiting for almost five years.

One of the satellite's tasks will be to keep track of developments in Iran and the potential development of nuclear weapons, considered by Israel as its most serious strategic threat.