# Kosmos 850

> Soviet radar calibration satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q53634](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q53634)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kosmos_850)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/kosmos-850

## Summary
Kosmos 850 was a Soviet radar calibration satellite launched in 1976. It was part of the DSZ–P1–Ju class of satellites and was designed to calibrate radar systems for military or scientific purposes. The satellite was launched aboard a Kosmos-2I rocket from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: August 26, 1976  
- **COSPAR ID**: 1976-084A  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Kosmos-2I rocket  
- **Launch Site**: Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 133  
- **Manufacturer**: Pivdenne Design Office  
- **Satellite Class**: DSZ–P1–Ju  
- **Aliases**: Cosmos 611, Kosmos 850  
- **Purpose**: Radar calibration for military or scientific applications  

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of Kosmos 850?  
A: Kosmos 850 was designed as a radar calibration satellite, likely for testing and fine-tuning Soviet radar systems, either for military or scientific use.  

### Q: Where was Kosmos 850 launched from?  
A: It was launched from Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 133, a major Soviet space launch facility.  

### Q: What rocket was used to launch Kosmos 850?  
A: It was launched aboard a Kosmos-2I rocket, a Soviet carrier rocket that was later superseded.  

## Why It Matters  
Kosmos 850 played a role in the Soviet Union's efforts to maintain and improve its radar technology, which was critical for both defense and scientific research during the Cold War. By calibrating radar systems, satellites like Kosmos 850 ensured the accuracy of missile detection, space tracking, and other strategic applications. Its launch also demonstrated the Soviet Union's continued investment in space-based military technology, contributing to the broader space race and technological competition of the era.  

## Notable For  
- Part of the DSZ–P1–Ju class, a series of Soviet radar calibration satellites.  
- Launched from Plesetsk Cosmodrome, a key site for Soviet military and scientific missions.  
- One of many Soviet satellites that underscored the country's focus on dual-use space technology.  

## Body  
### Launch Details  
- **Date**: August 26, 1976  
- **Time**: 10:59:57 UTC  
- **Site**: Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 133  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Satellite Class**: DSZ–P1–Ju  
- **Manufacturer**: Pivdenne Design Office, a major Soviet aerospace developer.  

### Mission Context  
- Used for radar calibration, likely supporting military or scientific radar systems.  
- Launched during a period of intense Soviet activity in space-based defense technology.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report