# Interkosmos 1

> former Soviet solar radiation research satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q205308](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q205308)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/interkosmos-1

## Summary
Interkosmos 1 was a Soviet solar radiation research satellite launched in 1969 as part of the international Interkosmos program. It conducted studies on solar X-rays and ultraviolet radiation before decaying from orbit in 1970. The satellite was the first in the Interkosmos series, marking early Soviet-led collaborative space science efforts.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: October 14, 1969, at 13:19:53 UTC, from Kapustin Yar, Soviet Union.
- **COSPAR ID**: 1969-088A.
- **Mass**: 320 kilograms.
- **Power Source**: 8 solar arrays.
- **Manufacturer**: Pivdenne Design Office (Dnepropetrovsk Sputnik family).
- **Launch Vehicle**: Kosmos-2I rocket.
- **Decay Date**: January 2, 1970 (orbital decay).
- **Country of Origin**: Soviet Union.
- **Mission Duration**: ~80 days.

## FAQs
### Q: When was Interkosmos 1 launched?
A: Interkosmos 1 launched on October 14, 1969, at 13:19:53 UTC from Kapustin Yar in the Soviet Union.

### Q: What was the purpose of Interkosmos 1?
A: The satellite studied solar radiation, focusing on X-ray and ultraviolet emissions from the Sun to advance solar physics research.

### Q: How long did Interkosmos 1 operate?
A: It remained in orbit for approximately 80 days before decaying on January 2, 1970.

## Why It Matters
Interkosmos 1 was significant as the inaugural mission of the Soviet-led Interkosmos program, which promoted international scientific collaboration among Eastern Bloc countries. It contributed to early solar physics research by measuring high-energy radiation, helping scientists better understand solar activity and its effects on Earth. As part of the Dnepropetrovsk Sputnik family, it demonstrated Soviet satellite technology and laid groundwork for future cooperative space projects. Its short lifespan reflected the experimental nature of early space research, yet it provided valuable data during its operational period.

## Notable For
- First satellite in the Interkosmos program, emphasizing international cooperation.
- Carried instruments to study solar X-rays and ultraviolet radiation.
- Utilized a DS-U3 spacecraft bus with solar arrays for power.
- Short orbital lifespan of ~80 days due to atmospheric decay.
- Part of the Soviet Union’s broader efforts to expand space-based scientific research.

## Body
### Launch and Deployment
Interkosmos 1 launched on October 14, 1969, aboard a Kosmos-2I rocket from Kapustin Yar. The rocket, a superseded Soviet carrier, placed the satellite into orbit for solar radiation studies.

### Mission Profile
- **Primary Objective**: Measure solar X-rays and ultraviolet radiation.
- **Instruments**: X-ray and UV sensors to analyze solar emissions.
- **Orbit**: Decayed on January 2, 1970, after ~80 days in orbit.

### Design and Specifications
- **Spacecraft Bus**: DS-U3, part of the Dnepropetrovsk Sputnik family.
- **Mass**: 320 kg.
- **Power**: 8 solar arrays.
- **Manufacturer**: Pivdenne Design Office (USSR).

### Legacy
Interkosmos 1 initiated the Interkosmos program, which involved multiple countries in collaborative space science. Though short-lived, it supported solar physics research and highlighted Soviet satellite capabilities during the Cold War era.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/interkosmos-1.htm)
3. SATCAT