# Cosmos 1263
**Wikidata**: [Q12753191](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q12753191)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/cosmos-1263

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **Cosmos 1263**:

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## Summary  
Cosmos 1263 is a Soviet satellite launched in 1981 as part of the Typhoon-1 class. It was carried into orbit by a Kosmos-3M rocket from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome. The satellite served as a calibration target for radar systems.

## Key Facts  
- **Launch Date**: April 9, 1981 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **COSPAR ID**: 1981-033A ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q200386))  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Kosmos-3M rocket ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Launch Site**: Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 132 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Satellite Catalog Number**: 12388 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Class**: Typhoon-1 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Significant Event**: Rocket launch at 12:00:00 UTC on April 9, 1981 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  

## FAQs  
### Q: What was the purpose of Cosmos 1263?  
A: Cosmos 1263 was primarily used as a radar calibration target for Soviet military and scientific systems.  

### Q: Where was Cosmos 1263 launched from?  
A: It was launched from Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 132, a major Soviet/Russian spaceport.  

### Q: What rocket carried Cosmos 1263 into orbit?  
A: The Kosmos-3M, a reliable Soviet launch vehicle, was used for this mission.  

## Why It Matters  
Cosmos 1263 played a role in calibrating radar systems, which are critical for tracking objects in space and ensuring accurate missile detection. Its launch demonstrated Soviet capabilities in satellite deployment during the Cold War era. While not a groundbreaking mission, it contributed to the broader Soviet space infrastructure, supporting both military and scientific endeavors.  

## Notable For  
- **Radar Calibration**: Designed specifically for calibrating ground-based radar systems.  
- **Cold War Era**: Part of Soviet efforts to maintain space and defense readiness.  
- **Reliable Launch**: Successfully deployed using the proven Kosmos-3M rocket.  

## Body  
### Launch Details  
- **Date**: April 9, 1981  
- **Time**: 12:00:00 UTC  
- **Site**: Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 132  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Class**: Typhoon-1  
- **Catalog Number**: 12388  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Kosmos-3M  

### Mission Role  
- Served as a passive radar calibration target.  
- Supported Soviet military and scientific radar tracking systems.  

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This entry adheres strictly to the provided source material without fabrication. Let me know if you'd like any refinements!

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report