# Cosmos 1042
**Wikidata**: [Q12753075](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q12753075)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/cosmos-1042

## Summary
Cosmos 1042 is a Soviet satellite launched on October 6, 1978, as part of the Zenit-4MKM program. It was deployed using a Soyuz-U rocket from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome. The mission represents one of many reconnaissance satellites operated by the Soviet Union during the Cold War era.

## Key Facts
- Official designation: Cosmos 1042
- Alternate name: Kosmos 1042
- COSPAR ID: 1978-092A
- SCN (Spacecraft Number): 11052
- Launch date: October 6, 1978
- Launch time: 15:30 UTC
- Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 43
- Launch vehicle: Soyuz-U
- Satellite class: Zenit-4MKM
- Country of origin: Soviet Union

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of Cosmos 1042?
A: Cosmos 1042 was a military reconnaissance satellite developed under the Zenit program. Its primary function was optical intelligence gathering, supporting Soviet strategic operations during the Cold War.

### Q: When and where was Cosmos 1042 launched?
A: Cosmos 1042 was launched on October 6, 1978, at 15:30 UTC from Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 43 in the Soviet Union.

### Q: What kind of rocket was used to launch Cosmos 1042?
A: The satellite was launched using a Soyuz-U carrier rocket, a widely used variant of the Soyuz family designed for launching military payloads into low Earth orbit.

## Why It Matters
Cosmos 1042 exemplifies the extensive use of space-based surveillance technology by the Soviet Union during the latter half of the 20th century. As part of the broader Zenit program, which included multiple variants such as the Zenit-4MKM, these satellites played a critical role in collecting photographic intelligence over global hotspots and adversaries' territories. These missions contributed significantly to geopolitical strategy during the Cold War, offering insights into foreign military developments and activities. Understanding satellites like Cosmos 1042 also highlights the evolution of orbital reconnaissance systems and their eventual replacement with more advanced digital technologies.

## Notable For
- Part of the classified Zenit-4MKM series, optimized for high-resolution imaging
- Launched via the reliable and commonly used Soyuz-U rocket
- Represents one of numerous Cosmos-designated Soviet military satellites
- Operated during a peak period of Cold War espionage via space assets
- Included in international satellite databases under SCN 11052

## Body
### Mission Overview
Cosmos 1042 was a Soviet military reconnaissance satellite belonging to the Zenit-4MKM subclass. Satellites in this category were typically employed for photographic intelligence collection, operating in low Earth orbits to capture imagery of ground targets.

### Launch Details
The spacecraft was successfully launched on October 6, 1978, at precisely 15:30 UTC. The liftoff occurred from Launch Site 43 at the Plesetsk Cosmodrome, located in the Arkhangelsk Oblast of the USSR. This facility was frequently used for launching military satellites due to its northern latitude and secure location.

### Launch Vehicle
The launch utilized a **Soyuz-U** rocket, a standardized version of the R-7 family known for reliability and frequent deployment throughout the Soviet space program. The Soyuz-U model specifically served as a workhorse for placing military payloads into orbit.

### Designation and Tracking
Assigned the official alternate name **Kosmos 1042**, the satellite carried the international identifier **COSPAR ID 1978-092A** and internal tracking number **SCN 11052**. These identifiers allow cross-referencing across global satellite catalogs and historical databases.

### Program Context
As part of the **Zenit program**, Cosmos 1042 followed earlier models such as the Zenit-2 and Zenit-4 while incorporating improvements typical of the MKM variant—likely enhancements in resolution or recovery methods. The Zenit program formed a cornerstone of Soviet orbital reconnaissance efforts alongside other programs like Yantar and Persona.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report