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Ted Molczan, an energy conservation consultant, likes to track clandestine U.S. spy satellites and leads a group of approximately 20 others who specialize in satellites that have undisclosed orbits. Molczan's group monitors about 140 classified U.S. satellites, such as satellites with special abilities. U.S. spy satellites take photos of targets, intercept communications, and search for indications of nuclear testing. Based on size, construction, and orbit, a satellite can reflect sufficient light to make it visible to the unassisted eye. When others know the exact time a spy satellite will be overhead, a big problem is caused for the U.S. A CIA employee in the 1970s who sold a technical manual describing design and operation of specific satellites was convicted of espionage and sentenced to 40 years in prison. Molczan says hobbyists are interested only in the technical challenges of observing something that is hidden, and not by politics. Among topics covered are the Web site Heavens-Above.com, the potential life span of a satellite, the best times for observing, and use of star sets to track an object.
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