# Molniya 1-88

> 23420

**Wikidata**: [Q111498984](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q111498984)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/molniya-1-88

## Summary
Molniya 1-88 is an artificial satellite launched on December 14, 1994. It is identified by the designation 23420 and classified as a human-made object placed into orbit.

## Key Facts
- Instance of: artificial satellite
- Launch date: 1994-12-14
- Designation: 23420
- Wolfram Language entity code: Entity["Satellite", "23420"]
- Wikidata description: 23420
- Related class: artificial satellite (sitelink_count: 142)

### Q: What is Molniya 1-88?
A: Molniya 1-88 is an artificial satellite launched on December 14, 1994, designated as 23420.

### Q: When was Molniya 1-88 launched?
A: Molniya 1-88 was launched on December 14, 1994.

### Q: What type of object is Molniya 1-88?
A: Molniya 1-88 is an artificial satellite, which is a human-made object placed into orbit.

## Why It Matters
Molniya 1-88 represents a specific entry in the Molniya satellite series, which has been historically significant for Soviet and Russian space programs. These satellites typically serve communications and military purposes, operating in highly elliptical orbits that allow extended coverage of high-latitude regions. As part of this series, Molniya 1-88 contributes to the broader infrastructure for communications and surveillance capabilities in areas where geostationary satellites have limited effectiveness.

## Notable For
- Part of the Molniya satellite series
- Launched in 1994 as part of ongoing space operations
- Designated as 23420 in satellite catalogs
- Represents continued use of highly elliptical orbit technology
- Contributes to communications infrastructure in high-latitude regions

## Body
### Technical Classification
Molniya 1-88 is classified as an artificial satellite, specifically part of the Molniya series that has been operational since the 1960s. These satellites are characterized by their highly elliptical orbits, which allow them to remain visible from specific ground locations for extended periods.

### Launch and Identification
The satellite was launched on December 14, 1994, and carries the designation 23420. This numerical designation is used in satellite cataloging systems to uniquely identify the object among all artificial satellites.

### Series Context
As part of the Molniya series, this satellite follows a lineage of communications and military satellites that have been crucial for Soviet and Russian space operations. The series is named after the Russian word for "lightning," reflecting the rapid development and deployment of these systems during the Cold War era.

### Orbit Characteristics
While specific orbital parameters for Molniya 1-88 are not provided in the source material, Molniya satellites typically operate in highly elliptical orbits with an inclination of approximately 63.4 degrees. This orbit type allows the satellites to spend significant time over high-latitude regions, making them particularly useful for communications in northern areas where geostationary satellites have limited coverage.