Israel has launched Eros-A-1, the first of a constellation of eight new spy satellites to replace the old Ofeq-3 satellite. The constellation will be operated by 14 ground stations and will provide photographic services to business and industry, although the Israeli military could veto any proposed target. The Eros-A satellites weigh 250kg and have a resolution of 1.8m; the larger Eros-B satellites (350kg) have a resolution of 0.82m.--Stephen V Cole