Israel launched a reconnaissance satellite into orbit aboard a Shavit booster on Monday morning, the Israel Ministry of Defense announced. “Ofek 16 is an electro-optical reconnaissance satellite with advanced capabilities. During the initial period of operation, the satellite will undergo a series of tests to determine its propriety and performance level,” the ministry tweeted. The launch took place from the Palmachim Airbase in Israel at 4 a.m. local time.