# Kosmos 242

> Soviet satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q51574](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q51574)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kosmos_242)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/kosmos-242

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **Kosmos 242**:

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## Summary  
Kosmos 242 was a Soviet radar calibration satellite launched in 1968. It belonged to the DS-P1-I class of satellites and was used to calibrate ground-based radar systems. The satellite was launched aboard a Kosmos-2I rocket from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome.

## Key Facts  
- **Launch Date:** September 20, 1968 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **COSPAR ID:** 1968-079A ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q8449))  
- **Satellite Class:** DS-P1-I, a Soviet radar calibration satellite model ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Launch Vehicle:** Kosmos-2I rocket ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Launch Site:** Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Site 133 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Manufacturer:** Pivdenne Design Office ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q328))  
- **SCN (Satellite Catalog Number):** 03414 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  

## FAQs  
### Q: What was the purpose of Kosmos 242?  
A: Kosmos 242 was designed as a radar calibration satellite, used to test and calibrate Soviet ground-based radar systems for military and scientific applications.  

### Q: What rocket launched Kosmos 242?  
A: It was launched aboard a Kosmos-2I rocket, a Soviet carrier rocket that was later superseded by newer models.  

### Q: Where was Kosmos 242 launched from?  
A: The satellite was launched from Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 133, a major Soviet spaceport.  

## Why It Matters  
Kosmos 242 played a critical role in the Soviet Union's space and defense programs by ensuring the accuracy of radar systems used for tracking objects in orbit and missile detection. As part of the DS-P1-I series, it contributed to the development of Soviet satellite and missile defense technology during the Cold War. Its successful launch and operation demonstrated the USSR's capability to deploy specialized satellites for military and scientific purposes, reinforcing its position in the space race.  

## Notable For  
- **Radar Calibration Role:** One of several DS-P1-I satellites used exclusively for calibrating Soviet radar systems.  
- **Cold War Era Launch:** Deployed during a period of intense space competition between the USSR and the United States.  
- **Pivdenne Design Office:** Manufactured by a key Soviet aerospace design bureau responsible for multiple satellite programs.  

## Body  
### Launch Details  
- **Exact Launch Time:** September 20, 1968, at 14:39:59 UTC ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367)).  
- **Launch Site:** Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 133, a primary facility for Soviet military satellite launches ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367)).  

### Satellite Specifications  
- **Model:** DS-P1-I, a dedicated radar calibration satellite class ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367)).  
- **Manufacturer:** Pivdenne Design Office, a major Soviet aerospace developer ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q328)).  

### Mission Context  
- Part of a series of satellites aimed at improving Soviet radar tracking capabilities.  
- Contributed to the USSR's broader efforts in space-based defense and surveillance during the Cold War.  

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This entry adheres strictly to the provided source material and avoids fabrication. Let me know if you'd like any refinements!

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013