Table of Contents
The ASAT Full Form is Anti Satellite Weapon: Anti-satellite weapons (ASAT) are military devices used to destroy satellites placed in Earth’s orbit. The purpose is to disable the enemy’s satellite-based communication or intelligence systems that threaten other countries’ safety and security. ASAT is a significant technological innovation but also raises legal and ethical concerns.
This blog informs you of the ASAT technology’s history, significance, and limitations and highlights India’s achievements in demonstrating ASAT capabilities through Mission Shakti.
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ASAT Full Form
The full form of ASAT is ‘Anti Satellite Weapon’ where A stands for Anti and SAT stands for Satellite.
Anti-satellite weapons can destroy, damage, and neutralise satellites moving in space. Some ASATs are launched from the ground, while others use air-based or space-based methods to project missiles from aircraft.
ASATs use different systems of attacks as follows:
- Kinetic Energy: This ASAT is launched from the ground, colliding with the Satellite and destroying it by impact.
- Laser Systems: A high-energy laser beam is used from ground or space to damage or destroy the target satellite.
- Electronic Signals: These devices use radio frequency signals or electromagnetic energy to disrupt the functions of the target satellite.
- Cyber technologies: These weapons use digital means to access and turn off the target satellite’s software or hardware.
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History of ASAT
ASAT has a long history, with various countries involved in exploring, designing, and implementing the system using different technologies. Here are the milestones:
- ASAT development began in the 1950s when the United States and the Soviet Union confronted each other.
- In the 1960s and 1970s, The United States developed the F-15 ASAT to target satellites in orbit, and the Soviet Union developed the laser-based Galosh ASAT to destroy satellites.
- In the 1980s, the United States developed the Kinetic Energy Anti-Satellite (KEASAT) system with a kinetic impactor. The Soviet Union also developed a similar system called the Polyus, which was launched from a spacecraft.
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Need For ASAT Technology
The development and application of ASAT weapons involve strategic and security considerations. After learning about the capabilities of ASAT, it’s important to understand their needs in a broader context.
- National Security: A country can use ASAT as a part of military operations to destroy enemy communication and surveillance capabilities.
- Deterrence: ASAT capabilities of a nation send messages to enemies and act as a deterrent for those who might consider using satellites for spying or military purposes.
- Destroying Inactive Satellites: ASAT can also destroy and remove outlived satellites from orbit to clear the space for future operations.
- Technological Progress: The ASAT testing can be a part of a country’s technological advancement strategies, especially in space research and defence systems.
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ASAT Technology in India
India’s ASAT (Anti-Satellite) development initiatives started in the early 2000s. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) took lead roles in the ASAT development. On March 27, 2019, India successfully conducted an ASAT test.
The test was named Mission Shakti. It used a kinetic kill vehicle launched from the ground to target and destroy an Indian satellite in low earth orbit. This test successfully demonstrated India’s capability to implement ASAT weapons and its commitment to national security.
The table below highlights the salient points related to Mission Shakti:
| ASAT Technology in India | |
| Facts | Details |
| Program Name | Mission Shakti |
| India’s Status | Fourth country to successfully conduct an ASAT test |
| Target Satellite | Microsat-R satellite in earth’s low orbit |
| Satellite Status | Operational but outlived |
| Satellite’s Altitude | 300 km from earth |
| Weapon Used | Prithvi Delivery Vehicle Mark-II (PDV MK-II) |
| Notifications | Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) to communicate about possible safety concerns |
| Space Debris | No major debris was generated |
| Debris Disposal | Debris fell back on Earth within weeks |
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Implications of Mission Shakti
The testing of ASAT weapons has multiple implications, as explained below:
- The success of this test conveys a message about India’s capabilities to enhance national security and defend against potential adversaries.
- It strengthens India’s position in the context of space-based military assets and defence mechanisms.
- The test shows India’s technological expertise to develop advanced weapons using sophisticated systems.
- India’s ASAT development is an important step in the context of its strategic rivalry with China, which also has developed its ASAT weapons.
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ASAT Limitations
The implementation of ASAT has raised some concerns due to its implications and effectiveness. Let’s look at some of its limitations:
Limited Capabilities: The effectiveness of ASAT may vary depending on the altitude and type of orbit of target satellites. They may operate within a certain range, typically up to a few hundred kilometres.
Debris Generation: Destroying a satellite can create huge debris in space, which poses collision risks to existing satellites and can create hazards for future space activities.
Diplomatic Issues: Using ASAT might raise diplomatic issues, because it can be considered as a provocative activity by different countries and against the outer space agreements and international laws.
Conflict Escalation: Possession of ASAT weapons may lead to power games between countries and escalate a conflict.
Cost and Complexities: Developing and maintaining ASAT capabilities is expensive and technologically complex. This can be a challenge for countries with limited resources.
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Conclusion
The full form of ASAT is Anti-satellite weapons. They destroy or turn off satellites in Earth’s orbit. While these weapons can provide strategic advantages, their use also raises serious concerns, both technologically and diplomatically. With advanced space activities by countries, it is important to consider the long-term consequences of their actions in space and ensure safety and sustainability.
FAQs on ASAT Full Form
Which countries successfully performed ASAT tests before India?
The United States, Russia, and China successfully conducted ASAT tests before India.
Which international treaties are put in place to regulate the use of ASAT weapons?
Yes. The Outer Space Treaty and the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty are in place to regulate the use of ASAT weapons.
How do laser-based ASAT work?
The laser-based ASAT uses high-energy lasers to destroy satellite optical sensors or solar panels and turn off their functions.
Where was the Mission Shakti test conducted?
The Mission Shakti was conducted on an island off the coast of Orissa.
