TecSAR-1, also known as TechSAR, Polaris and Ofeq-8,[3] is an Israeli reconnaissance satellite, equipped with a synthetic-aperture radar (SAR) developed by Elta Systems.

[4] The TecSAR satellite is fitted with a large dish-like antenna to transmit and receive radar signals that can penetrate darkness and thickness of clouds.

Launch was contracted by the Antrix Corporation, the commercial department of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

[14] TecSAR-1 is the first Israeli satellite to feature Synthetic Aperture Radar, or SAR, which will provide images day or night and under all weather conditions.

The satellite could potentially be the start of new strategic relations between Israel and India, and could affect the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

It was reported that TecSAR-1's ability to produce images in adverse weather and at night would allow Israel to obtain more information about the suspected Iranian nuclear weapons program.

[19][20] Another report claimed that should Israel enter a conflict with Iran in the future, information provided by TecSAR-1 could prove critical.

He emphasized his hope that "wise and independent countries like India do not give their advanced space technologies to launch spying operations against Iran".