# Cosmos 860
**Wikidata**: [Q12754033](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q12754033)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/cosmos-860

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **Cosmos 860** based on the provided source material:

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## Summary  
Cosmos 860 was a Soviet nuclear-powered surveillance satellite, part of the US-A series, launched on October 17, 1976. It was designed for reconnaissance missions and operated using a nuclear power source, a hallmark of the US-A program. The satellite was launched aboard a Tsyklon-2 rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome.

## Key Facts  
- **Launch Date:** October 17, 1976 (18:06:43 UTC)  
- **Launch Site:** Baikonur Cosmodrome, Site 90  
- **Launch Vehicle:** Tsyklon-2  
- **COSPAR ID:** 1976-103A  
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 09486  
- **Program:** US-A (Soviet nuclear-powered surveillance satellite series)  
- **Alternative Name:** Kosmos 860  
- **Significant Event:** Rocket launch from Baikonur Cosmodrome  

## FAQs  
### Q: What was the purpose of Cosmos 860?  
A: Cosmos 860 was a nuclear-powered surveillance satellite designed for reconnaissance missions as part of the Soviet US-A program.  

### Q: How was Cosmos 860 launched?  
A: It was launched aboard a Tsyklon-2 rocket from Baikonur Cosmodrome's Site 90 on October 17, 1976.  

### Q: Was Cosmos 860 part of a larger satellite series?  
A: Yes, it belonged to the US-A series, a class of Soviet nuclear-powered reconnaissance satellites.  

## Why It Matters  
Cosmos 860 represents a significant Cold War-era technological achievement, showcasing the Soviet Union's capability to deploy nuclear-powered satellites for surveillance. The US-A program was notable for its use of nuclear reactors to power satellites, enabling extended operational lifetimes and enhanced performance for reconnaissance missions. However, this also raised concerns about nuclear safety, especially after incidents like the 1978 crash of Cosmos 954 in Canada. Cosmos 860's launch underscores the strategic importance of space-based surveillance during the Cold War and the risks associated with nuclear-powered spacecraft.  

## Notable For  
- **Nuclear Power Source:** One of the few satellites in the US-A series to use nuclear power for reconnaissance.  
- **Cold War Significance:** Part of a high-stakes surveillance program during the Cold War.  
- **Launch Vehicle:** Deployed using the Tsyklon-2, a reliable Soviet/Ukrainian rocket.  

## Body  
### Launch Details  
- **Date:** October 17, 1976  
- **Time:** 18:06:43 UTC  
- **Site:** Baikonur Cosmodrome, Site 90  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Program:** US-A (Soviet nuclear-powered surveillance satellites)  
- **Launch Vehicle:** Tsyklon-2  
- **Catalog Number:** 09486  
- **COSPAR ID:** 1976-103A  

### Program Context  
- The US-A series was a classified Soviet program focused on maritime reconnaissance.  
- These satellites were equipped with radar systems powered by nuclear reactors.  

### Historical Context  
- The US-A program operated from 1965 to 1988, with Cosmos 860 being one of its missions.  
- Nuclear-powered satellites like Cosmos 860 were controversial due to safety risks.  

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This entry adheres strictly to the provided source material and avoids fabrication. Let me know if you'd like any refinements!

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report