# Cosmos 2423
**Wikidata**: [Q12907661](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q12907661)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/cosmos-2423

## Summary
Cosmos 2423 is a Russian reconnaissance satellite of the Orlets-1 class, launched in 2006. It was deployed using a Soyuz-U rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome and is primarily used for military observation purposes.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: September 14, 2006, at 13:41 UTC ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Soyuz-U rocket ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Launch Site**: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Site 31 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2006-039A ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q200386))  
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN)**: 29402 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Class**: Orlets-1, a reconnaissance satellite ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Aliases**: Also known as Kosmos 2423  

## FAQs
### Q: What type of satellite is Cosmos 2423?  
A: Cosmos 2423 is a military reconnaissance satellite belonging to the Orlets-1 class, designed for observational missions.  

### Q: When was Cosmos 2423 launched?  
A: It was launched on September 14, 2006, from the Baikonur Cosmodrome using a Soyuz-U rocket.  

### Q: What is the purpose of Cosmos 2423?  
A: As an Orlets-1-class satellite, its primary role is to conduct military reconnaissance and surveillance.  

## Why It Matters  
Cosmos 2423 is part of Russia's strategic military satellite network, contributing to intelligence-gathering and national security. The Orlets-1 class is known for its film-return reconnaissance capabilities, a technology that predates digital imaging but remains relevant for specific military applications. The launch of Cosmos 2423 underscores Russia's continued investment in space-based surveillance, maintaining its position in global military reconnaissance. Its deployment via the Soyuz-U, a reliable and long-serving rocket, highlights the enduring utility of Soviet-era space technology.  

## Notable For  
- **Military Role**: Part of the Orlets-1 reconnaissance satellite series, used for strategic intelligence.  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Deployed using the Soyuz-U, a variant of the iconic Soyuz rocket family.  
- **Legacy Technology**: Represents a continuation of film-return satellite systems in an era transitioning to digital imaging.  

## Body  
### Launch Details  
- **Date**: September 14, 2006  
- **Time**: 13:41 UTC  
- **Site**: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Site 31 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Class**: Orlets-1, a reconnaissance satellite with film-return capabilities.  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2006-039A ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q200386))  
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN)**: 29402 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  

### Mission Context  
- **Primary Function**: Military reconnaissance and surveillance.  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Soyuz-U, a variant of the Soyuz rocket family developed during the Soviet era.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report