NSSDCA/COSPAR ID: 1968-106A
Cosmos 256 was a Soviet geodetic satellite launched from the Plesetsk cosmodrome aboard a Cosmos 11 rocket.
The Sfera geodetic system covered a broad development for solving problems in geodetics, continental drift, and precise location of cartographic points. The spacecraft was equipped with measurement and signalling apparatus, providing assistance in measuring astronomical-geodetic points of military topographical research for the Red Army General Staff. The satellite allowed improved accuracy for long range weapons. Reshetnev was the Chief Designer. Flight tests were from 1968 to 1972. Series flights were from 1973 to 1980. The Kosmos 3M launcher was used. Colonel Ye S Shchapov was in charge of Sfera development. Sfera used the basic KAUR-1 bus, consisting of a 2.035 m diameter cylindrical spacecraft body, with solar cells and radiators of the thermostatic temperature regulating system mounted on the exterior. Orientation was by a single-axis magneto-gravitational (gravity gradient boom) passive system. The hermetically sealed compartment had the equipment mounted in cruciform bays, with the chemical batteries protecting the radio and guidance equipment mounted at the centre. .
Launch Date: 1968-11-30
Launch Vehicle: Kosmos-3
Launch Site: Plesetsk, U.S.S.R
Mass: 600 kg
Questions and comments about this spacecraft can be directed to: Coordinated Request and User Support Office