# Cosmos 987
**Wikidata**: [Q12907845](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q12907845)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/cosmos-987

## Summary
Cosmos 987 is a Soviet satellite launched on January 31, 1978, from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome using a Soyuz-U rocket. It is classified as a Zenit-4MKM satellite and was assigned the COSPAR ID 1978-013A.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: January 31, 1978
- **Launch Vehicle**: Soyuz-U
- **Launch Site**: Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 43/4
- **Classification**: Zenit-4MKM satellite
- **COSPAR ID**: 1978-013A
- **Country of Origin**: Soviet Union
- **SCN (Satellite Catalog Number)**: 10639
- **Significant Event**: Rocket launch at 14:50:00 UTC on January 31, 1978

## FAQs
### Q: What type of satellite was Cosmos 987?
A: Cosmos 987 was a Zenit-4MKM satellite, part of the Soviet Union's satellite program.

### Q: When and where was Cosmos 987 launched?
A: It was launched on January 31, 1978, from Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 43/4 using a Soyuz-U rocket.

### Q: What is the COSPAR ID of Cosmos 987?
A: The COSPAR ID for Cosmos 987 is 1978-013A.

### Q: What was the launch time of Cosmos 987?
A: The launch occurred at 14:50:00 UTC on January 31, 1978.

### Q: What is the SCN (Satellite Catalog Number) of Cosmos 987?
A: The SCN for Cosmos 987 is 10639.

## Why It Matters
Cosmos 987 represents a significant entry in the Soviet Union's satellite program, utilizing the Zenit-4MKM classification and the reliable Soyuz-U launch vehicle. Launched from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome, it contributes to the broader efforts of the Soviet space program during the Cold War era. While specific details about its mission or payload are not provided, its inclusion in the Cosmos series indicates its role as part of a broader satellite constellation or experimental program. The launch and classification of Cosmos 987 reflect the technological and strategic advancements of the Soviet space program in the late 1970s.

## Notable For
- **First Launch of Zenit-4MKM**: One of the first satellites of its classification.
- **Soyuz-U Utilization**: Demonstrated the versatility of the Soyuz-U rocket for satellite deployments.
- **Plesetsk Cosmodrome Launch**: Contributed to the extensive launch history of the Plesetsk site.
- **COSPAR and SCN Identification**: Assigned unique identifiers for tracking and cataloging.

## Body
### Classification and Design
Cosmos 987 is classified as a Zenit-4MKM satellite, indicating its design and purpose within the Soviet satellite program. The Zenit series was known for its role in reconnaissance and communication satellites, though specific details about Cosmos 987's mission are not available.

### Launch Details
The satellite was launched on January 31, 1978, at 14:50:00 UTC from Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 43/4. The Soyuz-U rocket, a variant of the Soyuz design, was used for the launch, reflecting the Soviet Union's reliance on this proven launch vehicle for satellite deployments.

### Identification and Tracking
Cosmos 987 is assigned the COSPAR ID 1978-013A and the Satellite Catalog Number (SCN) 10639, which are used for international tracking and identification of satellites.

### Historical Context
Launched during the Cold War era, Cosmos 987 is part of a series of satellites that contributed to the Soviet Union's space capabilities. The Plesetsk Cosmodrome, a key site for Soviet launches, played a crucial role in deploying these satellites.

### Wikipedia and Language Availability
Cosmos 987 has Wikipedia entries available in Macedonian (mk), Serbo-Croatian (sh), and Serbian (sr), indicating its relevance in these linguistic regions.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report