Cosmos 133

Launch data:

Mission details:

• 1e unmanned Soyuz test, problems by re-entry and automatic self-destruction of the spacecraft on 30.11.
• The launch vehicle underperformed, so the orbit was lower than planned. An ACS propellant leak developed on separation from the 1-stage and the craft was left with a 2rpm spin.
• The intented target vehicle was 7K-OK n°1, but the launch of that spacecraft (what would probably become Cosmos 134) was cancelled when Cosmos 133 developed problems in orbit. The launch of the passive vehicle had been planned for 29 Nov 1966.
• Backup ACS thrusters turned out to work in reverse but a plan was devised to make a series of short retro-burns. During several de-orbit attemps at the end of day one, the engine kept stopping. The craft was brought down on the second day, but the automatic destruct system blew the crew-cabin up, when it sensed that a landing in China was likely. It was felt that the mission would have succeeded had a pilot been aboard. The flight lasted 1d 21h (34 orbits).