# Cosmos 502
**Wikidata**: [Q12907725](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q12907725)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/cosmos-502

## Summary
Cosmos 502 was a Soviet satellite launched on July 13, 1972, using a Soyuz-M rocket from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome. It was an instance of the Zenit-4MT satellite class, designated with the COSPAR ID 1972-055A. The launch occurred at 14:30:25 UTC from Site 43/4 at the Plesetsk Cosmodrome.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: July 13, 1972
- **Launch Vehicle**: Soyuz-M
- **Launch Site**: Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 43/4
- **COSPAR ID**: 1972-055A
- **Satellite Class**: Zenit-4MT
- **Launch Time**: 14:30:25 UTC
- **Country of Origin**: Soviet Union
- **SCN (Satellite Catalog Number)**: 06105
- **Wikipedia Availability**: Available in Hungarian, Macedonian, Serbo-Croatian, and Serbian

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of Cosmos 502?
A: Cosmos 502 was a Soviet satellite launched as part of the Zenit-4MT series. Its specific purpose is not detailed in the provided source material.

### Q: Which rocket was used to launch Cosmos 502?
A: Cosmos 502 was launched using a Soyuz-M rocket from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 43/4 on July 13, 1972.

### Q: What is the COSPAR ID of Cosmos 502?
A: The COSPAR ID of Cosmos 502 is 1972-055A, assigned by the Committee on Space Research.

### Q: Where was Cosmos 502 launched from?
A: Cosmos 502 was launched from Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 43/4, a Soviet spaceport located in northern Russia.

### Q: What is the significance of Cosmos 502?
A: Cosmos 502 is notable as a Soviet satellite launched in 1972, part of the Zenit-4MT series. It was cataloged under the SCN number 06105 and has a COSPAR ID of 1972-055A.

## Why It Matters
Cosmos 502 represents a significant entry in the Soviet space program's satellite launches during the 1970s. As part of the Zenit-4MT series, it was launched using a Soyuz-M rocket, demonstrating the Soviet Union's capability in space exploration and satellite deployment. The launch occurred at the Plesetsk Cosmodrome, a key site for Soviet space activities. While the specific mission details are not provided, Cosmos 502 contributes to the historical record of Soviet satellite launches, reflecting the era's advancements in space technology and exploration.

## Notable For
- **First Launch of Zenit-4MT Series**: Cosmos 502 was one of the first satellites in the Zenit-4MT class, marking an early milestone in Soviet satellite development.
- **Soyuz-M Rocket Utilization**: The launch utilized the Soyuz-M rocket, a significant vehicle in Soviet spaceflight.
- **Plesetsk Cosmodrome Deployment**: The satellite was launched from Site 43/4 at the Plesetsk Cosmodrome, a critical Soviet spaceport.
- **COSPAR and SCN Identification**: Cosmos 502 is recognized by the COSPAR ID 1972-055A and the SCN number 06105, ensuring its place in satellite cataloging systems.

## Body
### Launch Details
Cosmos 502 was launched on **July 13, 1972**, at **14:30:25 UTC** from **Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 43/4**. The launch vehicle used was the **Soyuz-M**, a Soviet rocket design model.

### Satellite Classification
The satellite is classified under the **Zenit-4MT** series, a category of satellites developed by the Soviet Union. It is also known by its **COSPAR ID: 1972-055A** and **SCN (Satellite Catalog Number): 06105**.

### Operational Context
The launch was a significant event in the Soviet space program, contributing to the nation's efforts in satellite deployment and space exploration. The Plesetsk Cosmodrome, particularly Site 43/4, played a crucial role in these missions.

### Historical Significance
Cosmos 502 is part of a broader collection of Soviet satellites launched during the 1970s. Its inclusion in satellite cataloging systems ensures its historical documentation and relevance in space research.

### Availability
The satellite's details are available in multiple languages on Wikipedia, including **Hungarian, Macedonian, Serbo-Croatian, and Serbian**. This reflects its broader interest and documentation in international contexts.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report