NSSDCA/COSPAR ID: 1987-071A
Cosmos 1873 was considered by some observors as a possible spite test of Uragan space interceptor boilerplate mass model, just prior to project cancellation. In order to counter US space shuttle flights made in polar orbits from Vandenberg, the deep black Uragan project was begun. It was a scaled-up Spiral launched by new Zenit launch vehicle, carrying Nudelmann recoilless gun (same as developed for TKS) for the destruction of the shuttle after interception and inspection.
Launch Date: 1987-08-28
Launch Vehicle: Zenit
Launch Site: Tyuratam (Baikonur Cosmodrome), U.S.S.R
Mass: 15000 kg
Questions and comments about this spacecraft can be directed to: Coordinated Request and User Support Office