# Cosmos 420
**Wikidata**: [Q12907702](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q12907702)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/cosmos-420

## Summary
Cosmos 420 was a Soviet satellite launched on May 18, 1971, from the Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31 using a Voskhod rocket. It was part of the Zenit-4M class and carried the COSPAR ID 1971-043A. The mission marked a significant event in Soviet space exploration.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: May 18, 1971
- **Launch Vehicle**: Voskhod
- **Launch Site**: Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31
- **COSPAR ID**: 1971-043A
- **Class**: Zenit-4M
- **SCN (Satellite Catalog Number)**: 05230
- **Country of Origin**: Soviet Union
- **Significant Event**: Rocket launch at 08:00:00 UTC on May 18, 1971

## FAQs
### Q: What was Cosmos 420?
A: Cosmos 420 was a Soviet satellite launched on May 18, 1971, as part of the Zenit-4M class. It was launched using a Voskhod rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31.

### Q: Who launched Cosmos 420?
A: Cosmos 420 was launched by the Soviet Union using a Voskhod rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31.

### Q: What was the purpose of Cosmos 420?
A: The primary purpose of Cosmos 420 was to conduct space-based operations, though specific details about its mission are not provided in the source material.

### Q: How was Cosmos 420 different from other satellites of its time?
A: Cosmos 420 was part of the Zenit-4M class, which was distinct from other Soviet spacecraft like Voskhod, though the exact differences in mission or design are not specified.

### Q: Where can I find more information about Cosmos 420?
A: Additional details can be found in the Wikipedia articles for Voskhod (launch vehicle and spacecraft series) and the Zenit-4M class.

## Why It Matters
Cosmos 420 represents a milestone in Soviet space exploration, particularly within the Zenit-4M satellite program. Launched in 1971, it contributed to the broader efforts of the Soviet Union in space research and satellite deployment. The mission highlights the country's advancements in rocket technology and satellite operations during the Cold War era. While specific details about its mission are limited, its inclusion in the COSPAR catalog underscores its significance as a tracked space object. The launch from Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31 further emphasizes the Soviet Union's dominance in space activities during that period.

## Notable For
- **First Launch of Zenit-4M Class**: Cosmos 420 was one of the first satellites in the Zenit-4M series, marking an early milestone in Soviet satellite development.
- **Voskhod Rocket Utilization**: The mission utilized the Voskhod rocket, which was also used for crewed spacecraft missions, demonstrating its versatility.
- **Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31**: The launch site, Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31, was a key location for Soviet space missions, including both crewed and uncrewed launches.
- **COSPAR Tracking**: The assignment of COSPAR ID 1971-043A indicates its inclusion in international space tracking systems, reflecting its operational status.
- **Soviet Space Dominance**: The launch underscores the Soviet Union's leadership in space exploration during the 1970s, contributing to its reputation as a major player in the space race.

## Body
### Mission Overview
Cosmos 420 was launched on May 18, 1971, at 08:00:00 UTC from Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31. The satellite was part of the Zenit-4M class and was launched using a Voskhod rocket. It carried the COSPAR ID 1971-043A and was assigned the Satellite Catalog Number (SCN) 05230.

### Launch Details
- **Launch Vehicle**: Voskhod
- **Launch Site**: Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31
- **Launch Time**: 08:00:00 UTC
- **Launch Date**: May 18, 1971

### Classification and Identification
- **Class**: Zenit-4M
- **COSPAR ID**: 1971-043A
- **SCN**: 05230

### Related Entities
- **Voskhod**: Both a launch vehicle and a series of Soviet crewed spacecraft.
- **Zenit-4M**: A class of satellites, of which Cosmos 420 was a member.

### Significance
Cosmos 420's launch was a notable event in Soviet space history, contributing to the broader efforts of the Zenit-4M program. The mission utilized established Soviet technology, including the Voskhod rocket and Baikonur Cosmodrome facilities, reinforcing the country's capabilities in space exploration. Its inclusion in international tracking systems highlights its operational importance during the Cold War era.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report