Israeli Satellite Transmits Space Images

JERUSALEM – Israel’s sophisticated new spy satellite has begun transmitting images from space, the Defense Ministry said Thursday.

Israel launched the Ofek-7 satellite into orbit Monday, giving it a new tool in its efforts to collect intelligence on Iran and other regional adversaries. Israeli space officials said the information gathered would be shared with the United States.

Security officials said all its operating systems were working as planned. The officials would not discuss the quality of the pictures being transmitted.

The chief of the Defense Ministry’s space program, Haim Eshed, has suggested the satellite could be used to gather information on Iran’s nuclear program.

The satellite weighs 66 pounds, is 7 1/2 feet long and will operate at least four years, Israel Radio reported.