# Kosmos 156

> soviet weather satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q12248287](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q12248287)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kosmos_156)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/kosmos-156

## Summary
Kosmos 156 was a Soviet weather satellite launched in 1967 as part of the Meteor program. It was designed to monitor atmospheric conditions from orbit and improve meteorological forecasting capabilities during the Cold War era.

## Key Facts
- Launched on April 27, 1967 at 12:50:02 UTC
- COSPAR ID: 1967-039A
- Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 41
- Launch vehicle: Vostok-2M rocket
- Satellite catalog number (SCN): 02762
- Part of the Meteor series of Soviet weather satellites
- Official designation: Kosmos 156
- Classified as an artificial satellite of Earth and Meteor-class satellite

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of Kosmos 156?
A: Kosmos 156 was a Soviet weather satellite designed to collect meteorological data from orbit. It was part of the USSR's efforts to improve weather forecasting capabilities through space-based observation systems.

### Q: When and where was Kosmos 156 launched?
A: Kosmos 156 was launched on April 27, 1967 at 12:50:02 UTC from Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 41 in Russia. It was carried into orbit by a Vostok-2M launch vehicle.

### Q: How is Kosmos 156 related to other Soviet satellites?
A: Kosmos 156 belongs to the Meteor class of Soviet weather satellites, which were specifically designed for meteorological observations. It follows the same basic design and mission profile as other satellites in the Meteor program.

## Why It Matters
Kosmos 156 represents an important milestone in the Soviet Union's space-based meteorological program during the 1960s. As part of the Meteor series, it contributed to the advancement of weather prediction technology through orbital observation capabilities. These satellites played a crucial role in demonstrating how space technology could be applied to practical earth sciences, particularly during an era when both superpowers were expanding their understanding of atmospheric science. The data collected by Kosmos 156 and similar satellites improved weather forecasting accuracy and supported various civilian and military applications requiring reliable meteorological information.

## Notable For
- Being part of the pioneering Soviet Meteor weather satellite program
- Utilizing the reliable Vostok-2M launch system for orbital insertion
- Contributing to Cold War-era advancements in space-based environmental monitoring
- Operating from the strategically important Plesetsk Cosmodrome
- Representing early systematic approaches to satellite meteorology

## Body
### Mission Overview
Kosmos 156 was launched as part of the Soviet Union's systematic approach to developing space-based weather observation capabilities. The satellite was designed to gather atmospheric data that could enhance meteorological forecasting models used by both civilian and military organizations.

### Technical Specifications
The satellite carried instruments necessary for monitoring cloud cover, atmospheric temperature profiles, and other meteorological parameters from low Earth orbit. As a member of the Meteor class, it incorporated design elements optimized for continuous Earth observation missions.

### Launch Details
The launch occurred on April 27, 1967, with precise timing recorded at 12:50:02 UTC. The mission utilized the Vostok-2M carrier rocket, which was specifically adapted for launching satellites into polar orbits suitable for global weather coverage.

### Operational Context
Kosmos 156 was launched from Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 41, a facility primarily used for military and scientific launches. This location provided strategic advantages for achieving the high-inclination orbits required for comprehensive weather monitoring.

### Programmatic Significance
As part of the broader Meteor program, Kosmos 156 contributed to establishing the USSR as a leader in operational meteorological satellite technology. The program demonstrated the practical applications of space systems for environmental monitoring and laid groundwork for future generations of weather satellites.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report