# Cosmos 888
**Wikidata**: [Q12754048](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q12754048)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/cosmos-888

## Summary
Cosmos 888 was a Soviet satellite launched on January 6, 1977, using a Soyuz-U rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome. It was an instance of the Zenit-4MK class and is identified by its COSPAR ID 1977-001A. The launch occurred at 09:40 UTC from Site 31 at Baikonur.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: January 6, 1977
- **Launch Vehicle**: Soyuz-U
- **Launch Site**: Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31
- **COSPAR ID**: 1977-001A
- **Class**: Zenit-4MK
- **Launch Time**: 09:40 UTC
- **Country of Origin**: Soviet Union
- **SCN (Satellite Catalog Number)**: 09658
- **Aliases**: Kosmos 888

## FAQs
### Q: What was Cosmos 888?
A: Cosmos 888 was a Soviet satellite launched on January 6, 1977, as part of the Kosmos program. It was an instance of the Zenit-4MK class and was launched using a Soyuz-U rocket from Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31.

### Q: When and where was Cosmos 888 launched?
A: Cosmos 888 was launched on January 6, 1977, at 09:40 UTC from Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31 in the Soviet Union.

### Q: What type of rocket was used to launch Cosmos 888?
A: The Soyuz-U rocket was used to launch Cosmos 888. The Soyuz-U is a variant of the Soyuz rocket design.

### Q: What is the COSPAR ID of Cosmos 888?
A: The COSPAR ID of Cosmos 888 is 1977-001A.

### Q: What is the SCN (Satellite Catalog Number) of Cosmos 888?
A: The SCN of Cosmos 888 is 09658.

## Why It Matters
Cosmos 888 represents a significant entry in the Soviet space program's Kosmos series, which was part of a broader effort to develop and deploy satellites for various purposes, including military, scientific, and technological research. The launch of Cosmos 888, using the Soyuz-U rocket, highlights the Soviet Union's advancements in space technology during the late 1970s. The satellite's classification as Zenit-4MK indicates its role in a specific category of spacecraft, contributing to the broader goals of satellite deployment and space exploration. The event underscores the Soviet Union's commitment to expanding its presence in space and advancing its capabilities in satellite technology.

## Notable For
- **First Launch of 1977**: Cosmos 888 was the first satellite launched in 1977, marking a significant milestone in the Soviet space program.
- **Zenit-4MK Class**: It is an instance of the Zenit-4MK class, which indicates its specific design and purpose.
- **Soyuz-U Rocket**: The use of the Soyuz-U rocket for its launch highlights the reliability and versatility of this launch vehicle.
- **Baikonur Cosmodrome**: The launch site, Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31, was a key facility in the Soviet space program.
- **COSPAR ID**: The COSPAR ID 1977-001A provides a unique identifier for tracking and cataloging the satellite.

## Body
### Launch Details
Cosmos 888 was launched on January 6, 1977, at 09:40 UTC from Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31. The launch vehicle used was the Soyuz-U, a variant of the Soyuz rocket design. The satellite is classified as an instance of the Zenit-4MK class.

### Identification
The satellite is identified by its COSPAR ID, 1977-001A, and its Satellite Catalog Number (SCN), 09658. It is also known by the alias Kosmos 888.

### Classification
Cosmos 888 is part of the Zenit-4MK class, which indicates its specific design and purpose. The Soyuz-U rocket, used for the launch, is a variant of the Soyuz rocket design, originating from the Soviet Union.

### Significance
The launch of Cosmos 888 is notable as the first satellite launched in 1977, contributing to the Soviet space program's efforts in satellite deployment. The use of the Soyuz-U rocket and the Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31 highlights the technological advancements and strategic importance of these facilities in the Soviet space program.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report