# Cosmos 1983
**Wikidata**: [Q12753552](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q12753552)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/cosmos-1983

## Summary
Cosmos 1983 was a Soviet military spy satellite launched in 1988 as part of the Zenit 8 class, designed for reconnaissance missions. It was deployed using a Soyuz-U rocket from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome, contributing to the Soviet Union's intelligence-gathering capabilities during the Cold War.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: December 8, 1988, at 14:50:00 UTC.
- **COSPAR ID**: 1988-107A.
- **Satellite Class**: Zenit 8, a specialized military reconnaissance satellite.
- **Launch Vehicle**: Soyuz-U rocket, a reliable variant of the Soyuz family.
- **Launch Site**: Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 43 in the Soviet Union.
- **SCN (Space Catalog Number)**: 19672.
- **Alternate Name**: Kosmos 1983.

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of Cosmos 1983?
A: Cosmos 1983 was a military spy satellite used for reconnaissance by the Soviet Union, part of the Zenit 8 class designed for photographic intelligence gathering.

### Q: When and where was Cosmos 1983 launched?
A: It was launched on December 8, 1988, at 14:50:00 UTC from Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 43.

### Q: What type of rocket was used to launch Cosmos 1983?
A: The satellite was deployed using a Soyuz-U rocket, a widely used variant of the Soviet Soyuz launch vehicle family.

## Why It Matters
Cosmos 1983 represents a key component of the Soviet Union’s Cold War-era reconnaissance efforts. As part of the Zenit 8 satellite series, it played a role in gathering critical photographic intelligence, supporting military and strategic operations. The use of the Soyuz-U rocket underscores the reliability and versatility of Soviet launch systems during this period. While individual Zenit missions were not publicly detailed, the satellite’s deployment reflects the broader geopolitical context of space-based surveillance and the arms race. Its launch from Plesetsk Cosmodrome also highlights the Soviet Union’s extensive network of space infrastructure, which enabled frequent and clandestine satellite operations.

## Notable For
- **Zenit 8 Class Membership**: Part of a specialized series of military reconnaissance satellites.
- **Soyuz-U Launch Vehicle**: Utilized a reliable and frequently employed Soviet rocket variant.
- **Plesetsk Cosmodrome Launch**: Originated from a key Soviet space launch facility, emphasizing military-focused operations.
- **Cold War Context**: Contributed to intelligence-gathering efforts during a period of heightened geopolitical tensions.

## Body
### Launch Details
- **Date and Time**: Launched on December 8, 1988, at 14:50:00 UTC.
- **Launch Site**: Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 43, a primary Soviet spaceport for military and civilian missions.
- **Launch Vehicle**: Soyuz-U (Universal) rocket, a modified version of the Soyuz design optimized for satellite deployments.

### Satellite Specifications
- **Class**: Zenit 8, a military reconnaissance satellite with photographic capabilities.
- **Identifiers**:
  - **COSPAR ID**: 1988-107A.
  - **SCN**: 19672.
- **Alternate Designation**: Kosmos 1983, following the Soviet naming convention for satellites.

### Mission Context
- **Purpose**: Conducted reconnaissance missions to gather intelligence for Soviet military and strategic planning.
- **Historical Significance**: Part of a broader network of Zenit satellites that provided critical overflight capabilities during the Cold War, compensating for limitations in terrestrial surveillance.
- **Operational Secrecy**: Typical of Soviet military space activities, specific mission details and outcomes were not publicly disclosed.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report