USA-201

USA-201 is a United States signals intelligence satellite, believed to be part of the Satellite Data System (SDS) constellation. These satellites operate in highly elliptical Molniya orbits, allowing them to provide communications and data relay services to U.S. intelligence agencies, particularly in polar regions where geostationary satellites have limited or no coverage. The SDS system is considered a crucial element in the U.S. global surveillance infrastructure. USA-201 was launched on February 8, 2008, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida, aboard an Atlas V rocket. Its primary purpose is to relay signals intelligence data, likely gathered from ground stations and other satellites, back to central processing facilities. The precise capabilities and details of the SDS program are highly classified.