Notes on Soviet space astronomy

Abstract

Soviet space programs intended for making astronomical observations are reviewed. The Cosmos, Intercosmos, and Prognoz satellites designed for astronomical measurements are identified, and unmanned lunar and planetary missions are discussed, including the Luna, Lunokhod, Mars, and Venera programs. The Salyut 4 space station is described in detail along with the following major astronomical instruments: the Orbiting Solar Telescope 1, the infrared telescope spectrometer, the two solar spectrometers, the light-nuclei mass spectrometer, and the Filin and RT-4 X-ray telescopes. The future of Soviet space astronomy is assessed, particularly the tasks of the Salyut 5 station and the scheduled launch of Salyut 6.