Chronology - Quarter 4 1976

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Previous Home Next 1976 October 1 - Start final assembly, wing (STA-099) Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15. 1976 October 1 - Launch Site: Sriharikota. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: RH. Model: RH-560. FAILURE: Failure. 3-t engine test Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1976 October 4 - 11:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC43/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. FAILURE: Launch vehicle destroyed at T+95 seconds. Zenit-4MKT no. 3 Nation: USSR. Program: Resurs. Payload: Zenit-4MKT no. 3. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MKT. Agency: RVSN. COSPAR: F761004A. Investigation of the natural resources of the earth in the interests of various branches of the national economy of the USSR and international cooperation. References: 42, 103. 1976 October 8 - 17:44 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure 2B. LV Configuration: Centaure 2B ISRO 5.34. ISRO 5.34 Plasma mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 120 km (70 mi). References: 2. 1976 October 10 - 09:35 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 859 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 173 km (107 mi). Apogee: 337 km (209 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 89.60 min. COSPAR: 1976-099A. USAF Sat Cat: 9471. Duration: 11.00 days. Decay Date: 1976-10-21. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable; also performed earth resources tasks. References: 2, 6. 1976 October 11 - Launch Vehicle: Spiral 50-50. MiG 105-11 first flight Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: MiG 105-11. The EPOS spaceplane made its first flight, taking off from an old dirt airstrip near Moscow, flying straight ahead to an altitude of 560 m, and landing at the Zhukovskii flight test center 19 km away. Pilot was A. G. Festovets. 1976 October 12 - Launch Vehicle: Energia. First ground test of Block R LH2/LOX upper stage Nation: USSR. Program: Buran. From 1976 to 1977 two Block R stages underwent thorough tests of all of their systems. The Block R could have operated up to 7 hours with 7 restarts. Not adopted for production for unknown reasons. References: 21. 1976 October 14 - 17:17 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure 2B. LV Configuration: Centaure 2B ISRO 5.35. FAILURE: Failure. ISRO 5.35 Plasma mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2. 1976 October 14 - 17:39 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Soyuz 23 Nation: USSR. Program: Almaz. Payload: Soyuz 7K-T(A9) s/n 65. Mass: 6,760 kg (14,900 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-T/A9. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 239 km (148 mi). Apogee: 269 km (167 mi). Inclination: 51.60 deg. Period: 89.50 min. COSPAR: 1976-100A. USAF Sat Cat: 9477. Duration: 2.00 days. Decay Date: 1976-10-16. Crew: Rozhdestvensky, Zudov. Flight: Soyuz 23. The Soyuz 23 ferry spacecraft suffered a docking system failure. Sensors indicated an incorrect lateral velocity, causing unnecessary firing of the thrusters during rendezvous. The automatic system was turned off, but no fuel remained for a manual docking by the crew. References: 2, 6, 32, 33. 1976 October 14 - 22:44 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta 2914. LV Configuration: Delta 2914 614/D127. Marisat 3 Nation: USA. Payload: Marisat 103. Mass: 362 kg (798 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Marisat. Agency: Comsat. Perigee: 35,782 km (22,233 mi). Apogee: 35,789 km (22,238 mi). Inclination: 11.60 deg. Period: 1,436.10 min. COSPAR: 1976-101A. USAF Sat Cat: 9478. Maritime communications. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). Positioned in geosynchronous orbit over the Indian Ocean at 73 deg E in 1976-on. As of 26 August 2001 located at 33.84 deg W drifting at 0.011 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 10 located at 34.60W drifting at 0.007W degrees per day. References: 2, 6. 1976 October 15 - Midfuselage on dock, Palmdale (STA-099) Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15. 1976 October 15 - 22:59 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8A92M. Meteor 1-26 Nation: USSR. Payload: Meteor M no. 26. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: Meteor M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 836 km (519 mi). Apogee: 887 km (551 mi). Inclination: 81.30 deg. Period: 102.20 min. COSPAR: 1976-102A. USAF Sat Cat: 9481. Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. References: 2, 6. 1976 October 16 - Landing of Soyuz 23 Nation: USSR. Program: Almaz. Flight: Soyuz 23. The capsule landed at 17:46 GMT in Lake Tengiz in -20 deg C conditions in a snowstorm. The wet parachute filled and dragged the capsule below the surface, cooling the capsule. Heating systems had to be turned off in the capsule to conserve battery power. Amphibious vehicles attempted to recover the spacecraft but could not reach it. Finally swimmers managed to attach a cable to a helicopter. The capsule was dragged for kilometres across the icy sea. Only in the morning was the crew able to emerge from the capsule. The recovery crews were surprised they were still alive. 1976 October 17 - 18:06 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC90/19. Launch Pad: LC90/pad?. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: Tsiklon-2. Cosmos 860 Nation: USSR. Program: RORSAT. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Naval Radarsat. Spacecraft: US-A. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 923 km (573 mi). Apogee: 995 km (618 mi). Inclination: 64.70 deg. Period: 104.30 min. COSPAR: 1976-103B. USAF Sat Cat: 9531. Decay Date: 1976-12-29. Ocean surveillance; nuclear powered. References: 2, 6. 1976 October 21 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC170. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-UR-100. Model: MR-UR-100. FAILURE: Failure. Joint flight trials launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2. 1976 October 21 - 16:53 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC90/19. Launch Pad: LC90/pad?. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: Tsiklon-2. Cosmos 861 Nation: USSR. Program: RORSAT. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Naval Radarsat. Spacecraft: US-A. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 928 km (576 mi). Apogee: 987 km (613 mi). Inclination: 64.90 deg. Period: 104.20 min. COSPAR: 1976-104C. USAF Sat Cat: 9631. Decay Date: 1977-02-04. Ocean surveillance; nuclear powered. References: 2, 6. 1976 October 22 - 09:12 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC43/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. Cosmos 862 Nation: USSR. Payload: Oko #5. Mass: 1,250 kg (2,750 lb). Class: Early Warning. Spacecraft: Oko. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 3,620 km (2,240 mi). Apogee: 36,759 km (22,840 mi). Inclination: 68.30 deg. Period: 718.30 min. COSPAR: 1976-105A. USAF Sat Cat: 9495. Covered Oko constellation plane 5 - 86 degree longitude of ascending node. References: 2, 6, 100. 1976 October 22 - 15:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC36. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC NASA 21.36DS. Solar mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 239 km (148 mi). References: 2. 1976 October 25 - 14:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 863 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 178 km (110 mi). Apogee: 348 km (216 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 89.70 min. COSPAR: 1976-106A. USAF Sat Cat: 9499. Duration: 11.00 days. Decay Date: 1976-11-05. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1976 October 26 - Escape system test assembly sled ship from Downey Nation: USA. Program: STS. Escape system test assembly sled ship from Downey to Holloman, N.M. References: 15. 1976 October 26 - Launch Vehicle: Shuttle. Shuttle ejection seat tests Nation: USA. Tests begin on the rocket sled at Holloman AFB of the ejection seats to be used in shuttle Columbia, using an upper fuselage. The test series is completed on November 18. References: 44. 1976 October 26 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF05. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 2. ERCS GIANT MOON 8 Communications mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1976 October 26 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC177. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-UR-100. Model: MR-UR-100. Joint flight trials launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1976 October 26 - 14:50 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC81/24. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Proton. Model: Proton-K/DM. LV Configuration: Proton-K/DM 290-01. Ekran 1 Nation: USSR. Payload: Ekran s/n 11L. Mass: 1,970 kg (4,340 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Ekran . Agency: MOM. Perigee: 35,516 km (22,068 mi). Apogee: 36,080 km (22,410 mi). Inclination: 13.00 deg. Period: 1,436.70 min. COSPAR: 1976-107A. USAF Sat Cat: 9503. Completed Operations Date: 1978-08-01. Statsionar T. Transmission of colour and black-and-white USSR central television programmes to the network of public receiving units located in population centres in Siberia and the Far North. Positioned in geosynchronous orbit over the Indian Ocean at 99 deg E in 1976-1978 As of 29 August 2001 located at 68.75 deg E drifting at 0.171 deg E per day. As of 2007 Mar 11 located at 73.60E drifting at 0.187W degrees per day. References: 2, 6, 67, 274. 1976 October 27 - 16:29 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure 2B. LV Configuration: Centaure 2B ISRO 5.36 C.34. ISRO 5.36 C-300 X-ray astronomy mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 148 km (91 mi). References: 2. 1976 October 29 - Complete Delta F retest, Enterprise (OV-101) Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. References: 15. 1976 October 29 - Launch Site: Sary Shagan. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: S-225. Intercept Nation: USSR. Agency: PRO. Apogee: 180 km (110 mi). References: 2. 1976 October 29 - 12:40 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53772-414. Cosmos 864 Nation: USSR. Mass: 810 kg (1,780 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: Parus. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 958 km (595 mi). Apogee: 1,005 km (624 mi). Inclination: 82.90 deg. Period: 104.70 min. COSPAR: 1976-108A. USAF Sat Cat: 9509. Military navigation satellite. References: 2, 6. 1976 October 29 - 22:11 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.155UA. Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 123 km (76 mi). References: 2. 1976 October 30 - 03:30 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 200A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 200A NASA 26.56DG. NRL Mk II ultraviolet Camera Ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 182 km (113 mi). References: 2. 1976 October 31 - Solid rocket booster 1/4-scale model Nation: USA. Program: STS. Solid rocket booster 1/4-scale model (burnout configuration) References: 15. 1976 November 1 - Launch Site: White Sea Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 65.5 N x 38.0 E. Launch Vehicle: R-29. Model: Volna. LV Configuration: Volna VMF. Test mission Nation: USSR. Agency: VMF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Launched from White Sea Launch Area, Beloye More, Archangel'sk Oblast' - Latitude: 65.50 N - Longitude: 38.00 E. References: 2. 1976 November 1 - 11:20 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 865 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 203 km (126 mi). Apogee: 326 km (202 mi). Inclination: 72.90 deg. Period: 89.80 min. COSPAR: 1976-109A. USAF Sat Cat: 9515. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1976-11-13. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; separated science capsule. References: 2, 6. Nauka Cosmos 865 Nation: USSR. Payload: MKA?. Spacecraft: Nauka. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 214 km (132 mi). Apogee: 431 km (267 mi). Inclination: 72.80 deg. Period: 90.98 min. COSPAR: 1976-109G. USAF Sat Cat: 9525. Decay Date: 1977-02-10. References: 2, 279. 1976 November 4 - Complete 747 shuttle carrier aircraft modification Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15. 1976 November 4 - 07:45 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 6 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 6 AC SL1306. Large Area PC X-ray astronomy mission Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 191 km (118 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 5 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF08. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. FOT GT55GM Follow-on Test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 8 - Buran specification approved. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Buran. Decree 'On approval of a tactical-technical requirement for Buran' was issued. References: 474. 1976 November 8 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF26. Launch Pad: LF26?. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. FOT GT56GB Follow-on Test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 9 - 12:32 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5B. LV Configuration: Black Brant VB APD-VB-42. Cosmic rays X-ray astronomy mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 215 km (133 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 10 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: FB-1. LV Configuration: Feng Bao 1 701-08. FAILURE: Failure. JSSW 6 Nation: China. Payload: JSSW 6. Spacecraft: JSSW. Agency: PRC. COSPAR: F761110A. References: 279. 1976 November 11 - 10:45 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 866 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 180 km (110 mi). Apogee: 287 km (178 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 89.20 min. COSPAR: 1976-110A. USAF Sat Cat: 9532. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1976-11-23. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1976 November 12 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF21. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. LV Configuration: Minuteman 3 STM-12W. Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 13 - 10:31 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike Hydac. LV Configuration: HJ Nike Hydac ARPA WS614.51-3. WIDEBAND Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: ARPA. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 15 - 03:18 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Super Chief. Model: Talos Sergeant Hydac. LV Configuration: Talos Sergeant Hydac DNA TE634.52-1. Ballistics test Nation: USA. Agency: DNA. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 17 - 18:30 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 8C. LV Configuration: Black Brant 8C NASA 27.01CS. Solar mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 261 km (162 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 18 - Start escape system sled test, Holloman, N.M. Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15. 1976 November 18 - 04:25 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure 2B. LV Configuration: Centaure 2B ISRO 5.37. ISRO 5.37 Ionosphere mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 128 km (79 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 19 - 04:06 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Super Chief. Model: Talos Castor. LV Configuration: Talos Castor DNA EX651.92-1. EXCEDE Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: DNA. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 19 - 09:25 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 8C. LV Configuration: Black Brant 8C NASA 27.02UH. UCB extreme ultraviolet telescope Extreme ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 295 km (183 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 19 - 17:07 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-24? Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 19 - 17:07 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-24? Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 19 - 19:08 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-24? Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 19 - 19:09 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-24? Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 21 - 21:14 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 12. LV Configuration: Skylark 12 SL1422. Supra-thermal particles Aurora mission Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 715 km (444 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 21 - 21:14 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Fulmar. LV Configuration: Fulmar F2. Auroral mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 137 km (85 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 23 - Launch Site: WTR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-25? Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 23 - Launch Site: WTR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-25? Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 23 - 16:27 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 867 Nation: USSR. Payload: Zenit-6 no. 1. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-6U. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 250 km (150 mi). Apogee: 402 km (249 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 91.10 min. COSPAR: 1976-111A. USAF Sat Cat: 9552. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1976-12-06. Photo surveillance; returned film capsule. References: 2, 6. 1976 November 25 - Intercosmos Cosmonaut Training Group selected. Nation: USSR. Training group of potential 'guest cosmonauts' for propaganda flights to the Salyut space station. The 'guests', from states allied to the Soviet Union, would be flown on Soyuz lifeboat changeout missions to the station. 1976 November 25 - 03:59 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC31. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. LV Configuration: Molniya 8K78M-SOL. Prognoz 5 Nation: USSR. Payload: SO-M s/n 505. Mass: 930 kg (2,050 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: Prognoz. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 777 km (482 mi). Apogee: 198,560 km (123,370 mi). Inclination: 65.20 deg. Period: 5,728.00 min. COSPAR: 1976-112A. USAF Sat Cat: 9557. Decay Date: 1979-07-12. Investigation of the corpuscular and electromagnetic radiation of the sun and of solar plasma fluxes, study of the magnetic fields in circumterrestrial space in order to determine the effects of solar activity on the interplanetary medium and in the magne tosphere of the earth. References: 2, 6. 1976 November 26 - Complete integrated checkout, Enterprise (OV-101) Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. References: 15. 1976 November 26 - 10:25 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike Hydac. LV Configuration: HJ Nike Hydac ARPA WS614.51-4. WIDEBAND Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: ARPA. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 26 - 14:30 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC90/19. Launch Pad: LC90/pad?. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: Tsiklon-2. Cosmos 868 Nation: USSR. Program: RORSAT. Mass: 1,400 kg (3,000 lb). Class: Sigint. Type: Naval reconn. Spacecraft: US-P. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 422 km (262 mi). Apogee: 444 km (275 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 93.30 min. COSPAR: 1976-113A. USAF Sat Cat: 9561. Decay Date: 1978-07-08. References: 2, 6. 1976 November 27 - 20:51 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Terrier. Model: Terrier Malemute. LV Configuration: Terrier Malemute NASA 29.05IE. Ferdinand 38 (Harang) Aurora mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 538 km (334 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 27 - 20:51 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.206IE. Ferdinand 39 (Harang) Aurora mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 210 km (130 mi). References: 2. 1976 November 28 - Complete orbiter transporter strongback Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15. 1976 November 29 - 16:00 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 869 Nation: USSR. Program: Salyut 6. Payload: Soyuz 7K-S s/n 3L. Mass: 6,800 kg (14,900 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-S. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 209 km (129 mi). Apogee: 289 km (179 mi). Inclination: 51.70 deg. Period: 89.40 min. COSPAR: 1976-114A. USAF Sat Cat: 9564. Duration: 17.77 days. Decay Date: 1976-12-17. Unmanned military Soyuz 7K-S test flight. Recovered December 17, 1976 10:31 GMT. Transmitted only on 20.008 MHz and 166 MHz frequencies, at none of the other usual Soyuz wavelengths. Maneuver Summary: 196 km X 290 km orbit to 187 km X 335 km orbit. Delta V: 15 m/s 187 km X 335 km orbit to 259 km X 335 km orbit. Delta V: 21 m/s 259 km X 335 km orbit to 260 km X 345 km orbit. Delta V: 2 m/s 260 km X 345 km orbit to 265 km X 368 km orbit. Delta V: 7 m/s 265 km X 368 km orbit to 267 km X 391 km orbit. Delta V: 6 m/s 267 km X 391 km orbit to 300 km X 310 km orbit. Delta V: 32 m/s Total Delta V: 83 m/s References: 2, 6, 21, 121. 1976 November 30 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF09. Launch Pad: LF09?. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. OT GT32GM-1 operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1976 December 1 - GLONASS system development authorised. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Glonass. Central Committee of the Communist Party and Council of Soviet Ministers Decree 'On Expansion of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS) Single Space Navigation System--development of GLONASS' was issued. References: 474. 1976 December - Military-Industrial Commission approves Tselina-2 development plan. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Tselina-2. After a long review process the VPK issued the project plan for development of the system in December 1976. It would now use the new Zenit launch vehicle. 1976 December 2 - 00:17 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53731-273. Cosmos 870 Nation: USSR. Program: Tselina. Mass: 900 kg (1,980 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Tselina-O. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 504 km (313 mi). Apogee: 563 km (349 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 95.30 min. COSPAR: 1976-115A. USAF Sat Cat: 9573. Decay Date: 1980-12-20. Replaced Cosmos 500. Possible ELINT satellite. References: 2, 6. 1976 December 2 - 02:45 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. Molniya 2-16 Nation: USSR. Program: Molniya. Payload: Molniya-2. Mass: 1,600 kg (3,500 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Molniya-2. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 85 km (52 mi). Apogee: 36,437 km (22,640 mi). Inclination: 62.00 deg. Period: 641.50 min. COSPAR: 1976-116A. USAF Sat Cat: 9574. Decay Date: 1991-02-21. Continued operation of the long-range telephone and telegraph radio-communication system within the Soviet Union and transmission of USSR central television programmes to stations in the Orbita and participating international networks (international cooperation scheme). References: 2, 6. 1976 December 2 - 14:40 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 7 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 7 AC SL1114. Ultraviolet telescope / echelle Ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 263 km (163 mi). References: 2. 1976 December 3 - Launch Site: Biscarosse. Launch Complex: BLB. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: SSBS. Model: SSBS S3. LV Configuration: SSBS S3 V1. Test mission Nation: France. Agency: DMA. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1976 December 7 - Tail cone fairing on dock, Palmdale Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15. 1976 December 7 - 04:38 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2C. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 2C CZ2C-2 (5). FSW-0 No. 2 Nation: China. Payload: FSW-0 No. 02. Mass: 2,500 kg (5,500 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: FSW. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 172 km (106 mi). Apogee: 489 km (303 mi). Inclination: 59.40 deg. Period: 91.10 min. COSPAR: 1976-117A. USAF Sat Cat: 9587. Duration: 2.00 days. Decay Date: 1977-01-02. Photo surveillance; film capsule recovered 9 December. First completely successful test of the FSW spy satellite. Many improvements in comparison to the first FSW orbited. References: 2, 6. 1976 December 7 - 10:23 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53716-330. Cosmos 871 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 121. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,417 km (880 mi). Apogee: 1,465 km (910 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.70 min. COSPAR: 1976-118A. USAF Sat Cat: 9588. Eight satellites launched by a single carrier rocket. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 872 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 122. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,398 km (868 mi). Apogee: 1,464 km (909 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.50 min. COSPAR: 1976-118B. USAF Sat Cat: 9589. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 873 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 123. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,464 km (909 mi). Apogee: 1,496 km (929 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.50 min. COSPAR: 1976-118C. USAF Sat Cat: 9590. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 874 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 124. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,464 km (909 mi). Apogee: 1,516 km (941 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.80 min. COSPAR: 1976-118D. USAF Sat Cat: 9591. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 875 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 125. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,437 km (892 mi). Apogee: 1,464 km (909 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.90 min. COSPAR: 1976-118E. USAF Sat Cat: 9592. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 876 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 126. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,464 km (909 mi). Apogee: 1,539 km (956 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 116.00 min. COSPAR: 1976-118F. USAF Sat Cat: 9593. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 877 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 127. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,455 km (904 mi). Apogee: 1,464 km (909 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.10 min. COSPAR: 1976-118G. USAF Sat Cat: 9594. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 878 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 128. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,464 km (909 mi). Apogee: 1,475 km (916 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.30 min. COSPAR: 1976-118H. USAF Sat Cat: 9595. References: 2, 6. 1976 December 7 - 11:20 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Solar Ultraviolet/Solar Extreme ultraviolet mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 165 km (102 mi). References: 2. 1976 December 8 - 11:20 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Solar Ultraviolet/Solar Extreme ultraviolet mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 165 km (102 mi). References: 2. 1976 December 9 - 10:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 879 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 213 km (132 mi). Apogee: 225 km (139 mi). Inclination: 81.40 deg. Period: 88.90 min. COSPAR: 1976-119A. USAF Sat Cat: 9599. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1976-12-22. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule. References: 2, 6. 1976 December 9 - 20:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53719-153. Cosmos 880 Nation: USSR. Payload: DS-P1-M. Mass: 650 kg (1,430 lb). Class: Military. Type: ASAT Target. Spacecraft: DS-P1-M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 558 km (346 mi). Apogee: 614 km (381 mi). Inclination: 65.80 deg. Period: 96.30 min. COSPAR: 1976-120A. USAF Sat Cat: 9601. Decay Date: 1979-10-08. ASAT target for Cosmos 886 interceptor. References: 2, 6, 272. 1976 December 10 - Complete overland roadway construction to Edwards Nation: USA. Program: STS. Complete overland roadway construction, Palmdale to Edwards Air Force Base References: 15. 1976 December 10 - Tselina-D accepted for military service. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Tselina-D. Central Committee of the Communist Party and Council of Soviet Ministers Decree 'On adoption of the Tselina-D into armaments' was issued. References: 474. 1976 December 10 - Plasma-A construction authorised. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Plazma-A. Military-Industrial Commission (VPK) Decree 342 'On development of the Topaz-1 thermionic nuclear reactor for Plasma-A spacecraft' was issued. References: 474. 1976 December 11 - 00:14 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 12. LV Configuration: Skylark 12 SL1425. UK High Latitude Campaign Aurora mission Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 694 km (431 mi). References: 2. 1976 December 11 - 02:40 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Fulmar. LV Configuration: Fulmar F5. Aurora / aeronomy / ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 214 km (132 mi). References: 2. 1976 December 12 - Launch Vehicle: Energia. Buran draft project completed. Nation: USSR. Program: Buran. Spacecraft: Buran. The MKS draft project was completed on 12 December 1976.The military assigned the system the index number 1K11K25 and the launch vehicle the article number 11K25. 1976 December 13 - Start assembly upper forward fuselage, Columbia Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Columbia. References: 15. 1976 December 14 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC170. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-UR-100. Model: MR-UR-100. Joint flight trials launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1976 December 14 - 19:35 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC36. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC NASA 21.34NP. SPAR 3 Microgravity mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 174 km (108 mi). References: 2. 1976 December 15 - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Athena RTV. LV Configuration: Athena Athena D. MSV-2 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1976 December 15 - 01:30 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC81/24. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Proton. Model: Proton-K. LV Configuration: Proton-K 289-02. Cosmos 881 Nation: USSR. Program: Almaz. Payload: TKS VA s/n 009P. Mass: 4,250 kg (9,360 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: TKS VA . Agency: MOM. Perigee: 201 km (124 mi). Apogee: 241 km (149 mi). Inclination: 51.60 deg. Period: 88.90 min. COSPAR: 1976-121A. USAF Sat Cat: 9606. Duration: 0.0600 days. Decay Date: 1976-12-15. Launch of mission LVI-1 came at 04:00 on 15 December. At 176 seconds the ADU escape tower separated from the LVI. Once the final stage had shut down in orbit, by command from the launch vehicle sequencer, the VA 009A (also given as 009P) and its TDU separated from the LVI. Two seconds later VA 009 (or 009L) was ejected. Fifteen minutes after launch all systems of the both VA capsules were in operation. The guidance system detected the direction of flight and oriented each spacecraft for retro-fire, and the pair began the return to earth after less than one revolution. At an external atmospheric pressure of 165 mm (10 km altitude) the NO section jettisoned, the three-cupola drogue parachute ejected, and the antennae and altimeter were deployed. The Komara landing radio beacon (installed on the landing section of the parachute) was activated when the spacecraft was 1.0 to 1.5 m above the ground - which occurred at the same moment on both 009 and 009A. The Kaktus special system tripped the soft landing PRSP (parachute landing propulsion system). The soft landing was accomplished with higher accuracy than Soyuz, both capsules being recovered at 44 deg N, 73 deg E, on December 15, 1976 3:00 GMT. The flights were officially given the designations Cosmos 881 (VA 009A) and Cosmos 882 (VA 009). US intelligence believed them to be tests of recoverable manned spaceplane prototypes. References: 2, 6, 67, 274, 439. Cosmos 882 Nation: USSR. Program: Almaz. Payload: TKS VA s/n 009L. Mass: 4,250 kg (9,360 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: TKS VA. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 191 km (118 mi). Apogee: 213 km (132 mi). Inclination: 51.60 deg. Period: 88.50 min. COSPAR: 1976-121B. USAF Sat Cat: 9607. Decay Date: 1976-12-15. Test of TKS-VA capsule. Two satellites launched by a single rocket. References: 2, 6, 67, 274, 439. 1976 December 15 - 14:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53782-426. Cosmos 883 Nation: USSR. Mass: 810 kg (1,780 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: Tsikada. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 955 km (593 mi). Apogee: 1,005 km (624 mi). Inclination: 83.00 deg. Period: 104.70 min. COSPAR: 1976-122A. USAF Sat Cat: 9610. Civilian naval navigation satellite. References: 2, 6. 1976 December 16 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC173. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-UR-100. Model: MR-UR-100. Joint flight trials launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1976 December 16 - 01:10 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC36. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aries. LV Configuration: Aries NRL NB24.277. IMS Test Rocket Test / astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NRL. Apogee: 512 km (318 mi). References: 2. 1976 December 17 - External tank 1/4-scale model on dock, Downey Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15. 1976 December 17 - 09:30 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 884 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 169 km (105 mi). Apogee: 345 km (214 mi). Inclination: 65.10 deg. Period: 89.60 min. COSPAR: 1976-123A. USAF Sat Cat: 9614. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1976-12-29. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1976 December 17 - 12:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53721-255. Cosmos 885 Nation: USSR. Mass: 900 kg (1,980 lb). Class: Calibration. Spacecraft: Taifun-2. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 433 km (269 mi). Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). Inclination: 65.90 deg. Period: 94.10 min. COSPAR: 1976-124A. USAF Sat Cat: 9615. Decay Date: 1979-10-14. Released 18 Romb radar calibration subsatellites. References: 2, 6. 1976 December 18 - Launch Vehicle: Energia. Soviet Presidium directs co-operation on Buran Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Buran. Military-Industrial Commission (VPK) Decree 'On course of work on Energia-Buran' was issued. The declaration of the Presidium directed co-operation between all concerned user, research, and factory organisations in realising the project. Chief Constructor within NPO Energia was I N Sadovskiy. Chief Designer for the launch vehicle was Y P Kolyako and for the orbiter P V Tsybin. NPO Yuzhnoye in the Ukraine would build the booster rockets. References: 474. 1976 December 19 - 18:19 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC4E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 3D. LV Configuration: Titan IIID 23D-15. KH-11 no. 1 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-11 no. 1. Mass: 13,300 kg (29,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-11. Agency: NRO/CIA. Perigee: 246 km (152 mi). Apogee: 531 km (329 mi). Inclination: 96.90 deg. Period: 92.30 min. COSPAR: 1976-125A. USAF Sat Cat: 9627. Decay Date: 1979-01-28. KH-11 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6. 1976 December 22 - 04:30 GMT - Launch Site: White Sea Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 65.5 N x 38.0 E. Launch Vehicle: R-31. Test mission Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Launched from White Sea Launch Area, Beloye More, Archangel'sk Oblast' - Latitude: 65.50 N - Longitude: 38.00 E. References: 2. 1976 December 27 - 12:05 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC90/19. Launch Pad: LC90/pad?. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: Tsiklon-2. Cosmos 886 Nation: USSR. Mass: 1,400 kg (3,000 lb). Class: Military. Type: ASAT. Spacecraft: IS-A. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 593 km (368 mi). Apogee: 2,291 km (1,423 mi). Inclination: 65.80 deg. Period: 114.70 min. COSPAR: 1976-126A. USAF Sat Cat: 9634. Decay Date: 1976-12-27. ASAT interceptor. Intercepted and destroyed Cosmos 880 target. References: 2, 6, 272. 1976 December 28 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC106. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-36M. DP Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1976 December 28 - 06:38 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC43/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. Molniya 3-06 Nation: USSR. Program: Molniya. Payload: Molniya-3 s/n 17. Mass: 1,600 kg (3,500 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Molniya-3. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 426 km (264 mi). Apogee: 13,594 km (8,446 mi). Inclination: 59.50 deg. Period: 257.00 min. COSPAR: 1976-127A. USAF Sat Cat: 9635. Decay Date: 1990-02-06. Continued operation of the long-range telephone and telegraph radio-communication system within the Soviet Union and transmission of USSR central television programmes to stations in the Orbita and participating international networks (international cooperation scheme). References: 2, 6. 1976 December 28 - 07:50 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 65072-415. Cosmos 887 Nation: USSR. Mass: 810 kg (1,780 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: Parus. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 947 km (588 mi). Apogee: 1,011 km (628 mi). Inclination: 82.90 deg. Period: 104.70 min. COSPAR: 1976-128A. USAF Sat Cat: 9637. Military navigation satellite. References: 2, 6. 1976 December 30 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC177. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-UR-100. Model: MR-UR-100. FAILURE: Failure. Joint flight trials launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2. 1976 December 31 - Wernher Von Braun retires from Fairchild. Nation: USA. He had been diagnosed with cancer. Surgery was unsuccessful in halting its progress. Previous Home Next Contact us with any corrections, additions, or comments. Conditions for use of drawings, pictures, or other materials from this site.. To contact astronauts or cosmonauts. © Mark Wade, 1997 - 2008 except where otherwise noted.