# Cosmos 915
**Wikidata**: [Q12754061](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q12754061)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/cosmos-915

## Summary
Cosmos 915 is a Soviet reconnaissance satellite launched on June 8, 1977, as part of the Zenit-4MK series. It was deployed from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome using a Soyuz-U rocket. The satellite is identified by COSPAR ID 1977-045A and SCN number 10038.

## Key Facts
- Official designation: Cosmos 915
- Alternate name: Kosmos 915
- Launch date: June 8, 1977
- Launch time: 14:00 UTC
- Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 43/4
- Launch vehicle: Soyuz-U
- Satellite class: Zenit-4MK
- COSPAR ID: 1977-045A
- SCN number: 10038
- Country of origin: Soviet Union

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of Cosmos 915?
A: Cosmos 915 was a military reconnaissance satellite designed to capture optical imagery for intelligence purposes. It belonged to the Zenit-4MK series, which was used extensively by the Soviet Union for surveillance during the Cold War.

### Q: When and where was Cosmos 915 launched?
A: Cosmos 915 was launched on June 8, 1977, at 14:00 UTC from Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 43/4 in the Soviet Union. It was carried into orbit by a Soyuz-U rocket.

### Q: How is Cosmos 915 classified technically?
A: Cosmos 915 is classified as a Zenit-4MK satellite, a variant of the Zenit program optimized for high-resolution reconnaissance missions. It was cataloged under SCN 10038 and COSPAR ID 1977-045A.

## Why It Matters
Cosmos 915 represents one part of the Soviet Union's extensive space-based reconnaissance efforts during the Cold War. As a Zenit-4MK satellite, it contributed to the USSR’s strategic intelligence-gathering capabilities through orbital photography. These missions were critical in monitoring foreign military installations, troop movements, and geopolitical developments without direct territorial intrusion. Its successful deployment demonstrated the maturity of Soviet space technology and operational planning in support of national defense objectives.

## Notable For
- Part of the Zenit-4MK reconnaissance satellite series
- Launched using the widely-used Soyuz-U rocket
- One of multiple Cosmos-designated satellites launched in 1977
- Represents Soviet advancements in photo-reconnaissance technology
- Identified with both international (COSPAR) and internal (SCN) tracking identifiers

## Body
### Mission Overview
Cosmos 915 was a Soviet military reconnaissance satellite launched during the height of the Cold War. Designed for optical imaging, it formed part of the broader Zenit program managed by the Soviet Ministry of Defense.

### Technical Classification
The spacecraft was categorized under the Zenit-4MK class, known for its improved resolution and film-return systems compared to earlier variants. This model typically featured enhanced optics and maneuverability for targeted Earth observation.

### Launch Details
- **Date**: June 8, 1977  
- **Time**: 14:00 UTC  
- **Location**: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Site 43/4  
- **Vehicle**: Soyuz-U  
This launch occurred amid a busy period of Soviet space activity, particularly focused on dual-use (civilian and military) satellite deployments.

### Identifiers and Tracking
- **COSPAR ID**: 1977-045A  
- **SCN Number**: 10038  
These identifiers allowed global tracking and cataloging by space surveillance networks and are referenced in databases such as Wolfram Alpha and academic aerospace resources.

### Operational Context
As with other Zenit-class missions, Cosmos 915 likely followed a low Earth orbit optimized for photographic reconnaissance. Missions like these played a crucial role in Soviet strategic intelligence operations throughout the latter half of the 20th century.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report