Mission Shakti Anti-Satellite Missile Test: 10 top questions answered about this proud moment for the country
PM Narendra Modi, in a special address to the nation, announced that India had just shot down a live satellite 300 km up in the sky and that the country has just became the newest member of the space club that had a workable space weapon that could be termed a Star Wars type system. This came in teh wake of teh successful conclusion of Mission Shakti Anti-Satellite Missile Test, which made India the 4th global power on a list that includes US, Russia and China. But what was this Mission Shakti Anti-Satellite Missile Test? Here is all you need to know:
I. What was the Mission Shakti Anti-Satellite Missile Test ?
On March 27, 2019 India conducted Mission Shakti, an anti-satellite missile test, from the Dr. A P J Abdul Kalam Island launch complex.This was a technological mission carried out by DRDO. The satellite used in the mission was one of India’s existing satellites operating in lower orbit. The significance of the Mission Shakti Anti-Satellite Missile Test is that India has tested and successfully demonstrated its capability to interdict and intercept a satellite in outer space based on complete indigenous technology. (Reuters)
II. Which satellite was used by Mission Shakti Anti-Satellite Missile Test?
The satellite used was an Indian satellite. (PTI/Representative image)
III. Which Missile/Interceptor was used?
The DRDO’s Ballistic Missile Defence interceptor was used, which is part of the ongoing ballistic missile defence programme. (PTI/Representative image)
IV. Why has India used the particular technology of Kinetic Kill?
This is a technology where we have developed capability. Space technologies are constantly evolving. We have used the technology that is appropriate to achieve the objectives set out in this mission. (PTI/Representative image)
V. Does the test create space debris?
The test was done in the lower atmosphere to ensure that there is no space debris. Whatever debris that is generated will decay and fall back onto the earth within weeks. (Reuters/Representative image)
VI. Why did India carry out the Mission Shakti Anti-Satellite Missile Test?
The test was done to verify that India has the capability to safeguard our space assets. It is the Government of India’s responsibility to defend the country’s interests in outer space. (Reuters/Representative image)
VII. Why was the Mission Shakti Anti-Satellite Missile Test done now?
The tests were done after we had acquired the required degree of confidence to ensure its success, and reflects the intention of the government to enhance India’s national security. India has seen an accelerated space development programme since 2014. (Reuters/Representative image)
VIII. Is India entering into an arms race in outer space?
India supports the substantive consideration of the issue of Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space (PAROS) in the Conference on Disarmament where it has been on the agenda since 1982. (Reuters/Representative image)
IX. What is the international law on weapons in outer space?
The principal international Treaty on space is the 1967 Outer Space Treaty. India is a signatory to this treaty, and ratified it in 1982. The Outer Space Treaty prohibits only weapons of mass destruction in outer space, not ordinary weapons. (Reuters/Representative image)
X. Is the Mission Shakti Anti-Satellite Missile Test directed against any country?
The test is not directed against any country. India’s space capabilities do not threaten any country and nor are they directed against anyone. (Reuters/Representative image)