Launch Success
Liftoff Time (GMT)
23:55:00
Thursday December 19, 1968
Cosmos 261 is a satellite of the DS-U constellation. The satellites of the latter are used to test different systems for future Soviet military satellites. It will test mainly new methods of communication with the ground, new radar systems and modes of power supply by nuclear battery.
Low Earth Orbit
1 Payload
347 kilograms
Manufacturer
OKB-586Rocket
Height: 29.59m
Payload to Orbit
LEO: 400 kg
GTO: 0 kg
Liftoff Thrust
636 Kilonewtons
Fairing
Diameter: 1.65m
Height: 2.99m
Stages
2
35th
Mission
16th
Mission of 1968
373rd
Mission
80th
Mission of 1968
126th
Orbital launch attempt