# Kosmos 553

> Soviet radar calibration satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q53597](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q53597)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kosmos_553)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/kosmos-553

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **Kosmos 553**:

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## Summary  
Kosmos 553 was a Soviet radar calibration satellite launched in 1973. It belonged to the DSZ–P1–Ju class and was designed to calibrate ground-based radar systems. The satellite was launched aboard a Kosmos-2I rocket from Plesetsk Cosmodrome.

## Key Facts  
- **Launch Date:** April 12, 1973 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **COSPAR ID:** 1973-020A ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q8449))  
- **Launch Vehicle:** Kosmos-2I ([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))  
- **Satellite Class:** DSZ–P1–Ju ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Purpose:** Radar calibration ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  

## FAQs  
### Q: What was the purpose of Kosmos 553?  
A: Kosmos 553 was designed to calibrate Soviet ground-based radar systems, ensuring their accuracy for military and scientific applications.  

### Q: Where was Kosmos 553 launched from?  
A: It was launched from Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 133, a major Soviet spaceport.  

### Q: What rocket was used to launch Kosmos 553?  
A: The Kosmos-2I carrier rocket was used for its launch.  

## Why It Matters  
Kosmos 553 played a critical role in maintaining the precision of Soviet radar systems during the Cold War. Radar calibration satellites like this were essential for military surveillance, missile tracking, and space situational awareness. Its successful deployment demonstrated the Soviet Union’s technological capabilities in space-based support systems. While not a high-profile mission, Kosmos 553 contributed to the broader infrastructure of Soviet space and defense programs.  

## Notable For  
- Part of the **DSZ–P1–Ju** class, a series of specialized radar calibration satellites.  
- Launched aboard the **Kosmos-2I**, a workhorse Soviet rocket.  
- Contributed to Cold War-era radar accuracy for defense applications.  

## Body  
### Launch Details  
- **Date:** April 12, 1973  
- **Time:** 11:49:55 UTC  
- **Site:** Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 133  

### Technical Specifications  
- **COSPAR ID:** 1973-020A  
- **Satellite Catalog Number:** 06427  
- **Manufacturer:** Pivdenne Design Office  

### Mission Role  
- Primary function: **Radar calibration**  
- Part of a series of Soviet satellites designed to support ground-based radar systems.  

### Related Entities  
- **Launch Vehicle:** Kosmos-2I (superseded Soviet rocket)  
- **Satellite Class:** DSZ–P1–Ju  

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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