DRDO Chairman G Satheesh Reddy has said that most of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/a-sat-india-chose-much-lower-orbit-to-avoid-debris-threat-to-global-space-assets-says-drdo-208471">debris generated from the anti-satellite test</a> conducted by India in March have decayed and rest of it will dissipate in a "short period of time".

He said this in response to a question after delivering a talk on 'Technology for National Security' on Friday at the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA), a city-based think tank.

"As I had mentioned on April 6, the debris were to decay in a few weeks time. As per the information that we have already got, most of the debris has decayed. And, whatever, couple of pieces are there, they will be decaying in a short period of time," Reddy said.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation chief said the continuous information being received is monitored and "I don't think there are any issues".

"It is extremely difficult to predict as to how many days it would take...But, as I had said that day, that they would decay in a few weeks, and the majority of them have decayed," he added.

On April 6 at a press conference at DRDO Bhawan here, Reddy had said India chose a much lower orbit of less than 300 km during 'Mission Shakti' for "capability demonstration" and to avoid threat of debris to global space assets.

His remark had come days after the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) raised concerns about the spread of debris from India's anti-satellite test conducted on March 27.

India's Ministry of External Affairs, too, has said the test was done in the lower atmosphere to ensure that there is no space debris.

On another question on leakage of defence know how-related data, he said, "We haven't seen cases as such, but we are careful".

"There are no serious issues as such, but of late, because of the apprehensions of cyber attacks and cyber-related issues, we are sensitising people in the industry and also in our own laboratories on it," he said.&nbsp;

DRDO Chairman G Satheesh Reddy has said that most of the debris generated from the anti-satellite test conducted by India in March have decayed and rest of it will dissipate in a "short period of time".

DRDO Chairman G Satheesh Reddy has said that most of the debris generated from the anti-satellite test conducted by India in March have decayed and rest of it will dissipate in a "short period of time". He said this in response to a question after delivering a talk on 'Technology for National Security' on Friday at the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA), a city-based think tank. "As I had mentioned on April 6, the debris were to decay in a few weeks time. As per the information that we have already got, most of the debris has decayed. And, whatever, couple of pieces are there, they will be decaying in a short period of time," Reddy said. The Defence Research and Development Organisation chief said the continuous information being received is monitored and "I don't think there are any issues". "It is extremely difficult to predict as to how many days it would take...But, as I had said that day, that they would decay in a few weeks, and the majority of them have decayed," he added. On April 6 at a press conference at DRDO Bhawan here, Reddy had said India chose a much lower orbit of less than 300 km during 'Mission Shakti' for "capability demonstration" and to avoid threat of debris to global space assets. His remark had come days after the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) raised concerns about the spread of debris from India's anti-satellite test conducted on March 27. India's Ministry of External Affairs, too, has said the test was done in the lower atmosphere to ensure that there is no space debris. On another question on leakage of defence know how-related data, he said, "We haven't seen cases as such, but we are careful". "There are no serious issues as such, but of late, because of the apprehensions of cyber attacks and cyber-related issues, we are sensitising people in the industry and also in our own laboratories on it," he said.

Most of debris generated from India's anti-satellite test has decayed: Reddy

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-conducted-asat-test-because-they-face-threats-from-other-nations-in-space-us-commander-to-senate-committee-209715">India conducted ASAT test because they face threats from other nations in space: US commander to Senate committee</a>

India is concerned about the "threats" it faces in space, the Pentagon has said, defending the country for acquiring anti-satellite (ASAT) missile test capabilities.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-should-ensure-civilian-led-transition-sooner-than-two-years-us-209707">Sudan should ensure civilian-led transition sooner than two years: US</a>

The United States on Thursday suspended discussions with Sudan on normalising relations between the two countries after the military ousted President Omar al-Bashir and said it would run the country for two years.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spacex-falcon-heavy-rocket-launches-first-commercial-flight-209697">SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket launches first commercial flight</a>

The most powerful operational rocket in the world, SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy, launched its first commercial mission on Thursday from Florida in a key demonstration for billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk's space company in the race to grasp lucrative military launch contracts.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-bans-online-game-pubg-citing-negative-impact-on-children-209694">Nepal bans online game PUBG citing negative impact on children</a>

Nepal on Thursday banned the popular online game PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds (PUBG), saying its violent content had a negative impact on children, an official said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-spacecraft-crashes-during-moon-landing-mission-control-209706">Israeli spacecraft crashes during moon landing</a>

Israel's attempt at a moon landing failed at the last minute on Thursday when the craft suffered an engine failure as it prepared to land and apparently crashed onto the lunar surface.

&nbsp;

India conducted ASAT test because they face threats from other nations in space: US commander to Senate committee India is concerned about the "threats" it faces in space, the Pentagon has said, defending the country for acquiring anti-satellite (ASAT) missile test capabilities.

India conducted ASAT test because they face threats from other nations in space: US commander to Senate committee India is concerned about the "threats" it faces in space, the Pentagon has said, defending the country for acquiring anti-satellite (ASAT) missile test capabilities. Sudan should ensure civilian-led transition sooner than two years: US The United States on Thursday suspended discussions with Sudan on normalising relations between the two countries after the military ousted President Omar al-Bashir and said it would run the country for two years. SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket launches first commercial flight The most powerful operational rocket in the world, SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy, launched its first commercial mission on Thursday from Florida in a key demonstration for billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk's space company in the race to grasp lucrative military launch contracts. Nepal bans online game PUBG citing negative impact on children Nepal on Thursday banned the popular online game PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds (PUBG), saying its violent content had a negative impact on children, an official said. Israeli spacecraft crashes during moon landing Israel's attempt at a moon landing failed at the last minute on Thursday when the craft suffered an engine failure as it prepared to land and apparently crashed onto the lunar surface.

News brief: Big stories of the day

With the successful anti-satellite missile test, India is capable of hitting a target at a range of over 1,000 km in space and a lower orbit was chosen for the mission to avoid a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/asat-satellite-destruction-led-to-400-pieces-of-debris-endangering-iss-nasa-207311">threat of debris to global space assets</a>, DRDO Chairman G Satheesh Reddy said Saturday.

On being asked whether multiple satellite targets can be hit, he said, "It is a question of how many launchers we have, and with multiple launchers, one can have multiple engagements. But, multiple (targets) is definitely feasible."

India shot down one of its satellites in space on March 27 with an anti-satellite (A-SAT) missile to demonstrate this complex capability, joining the elite club of countries -- the US, Russia and China -- which have such capabilities.

"The A-SAT test was successfully conducted with a new interceptor missile against a live orbiting satellite in the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) in a hit-to-kill mode. The interceptor has the capability to hit the target at a range of 1,000 km, which covers most of the LEO satellites," he told a press conference at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Bhawan here.

"An orbit of around 300 km was chosen for the test for capability demonstration and the purpose was to avoid the threat of debris to any global space assets," Reddy said.

His remarks come days after NASA raised concerns about the spread of debris from the A-SAT test India conducted under Mission Shakti.

"The debris created following the intercept will decay in a matter of weeks," he added.

Addressing the media persons, Reddy also said, "For a similar application we don't need another test."

On Tuesday, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) had termed a "terrible thing" India's shooting down of its satellite, saying the hit-to-kill mission created about 400 pieces of orbital debris.

"Some debris going up could be a possibility, as per our simulation also. We don't have information on that.. From our simulation, we can very clearly say that the possibilities of (debris) hitting the ISS are not there," Reddy said.

He said the first 10 days since the test were critical and that have passed, and in 45 days all debris will disintegrate.

The Ministry of External Affairs too has said the test was done in the lower atmosphere to ensure that there is no space debris.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had hailed the A-SAT test's success as "an unprecedented achievement" that makes India a "space power".

Some 150 scientists, including at least 40 women scientists, worked round-the-clock, and especially in the last six months on this project. About 2,000 components were sourced from 50 private industries. The idea began around 2014 and development started in 2016 with a go-ahead from the government.

The press interaction came days ahead of the first phase of the Lok Sabha polls on April 11 due to which the model code of conduct is in place.

He also said that earlier in the day there was a meeting with eminent scientists to inform them about the A-SAT test.&nbsp;

He also responded to a question on Congress leader P Chidambaram's criticism of the government on the test, who had said that "only a foolish government" would reveal a defence secret.

"Mission of this nature after a test is conducted can't be kept secret. The satellite is tracked by many stations across the world. All necessary permissions were taken, Reddy said.

With the successful anti-satellite missile test, India is capable of hitting a target at a range of over 1,000 km in space and a lower orbit was chosen for the mission to avoid a threat of debris to global space assets, DRDO Chairman G Satheesh Reddy said Saturday.

With the successful anti-satellite missile test, India is capable of hitting a target at a range of over 1,000 km in space and a lower orbit was chosen for the mission to avoid a threat of debris to global space assets, DRDO Chairman G Satheesh Reddy said Saturday. On being asked whether multiple satellite targets can be hit, he said, "It is a question of how many launchers we have, and with multiple launchers, one can have multiple engagements. But, multiple (targets) is definitely feasible." India shot down one of its satellites in space on March 27 with an anti-satellite (A-SAT) missile to demonstrate this complex capability, joining the elite club of countries -- the US, Russia and China -- which have such capabilities. "The A-SAT test was successfully conducted with a new interceptor missile against a live orbiting satellite in the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) in a hit-to-kill mode. The interceptor has the capability to hit the target at a range of 1,000 km, which covers most of the LEO satellites," he told a press conference at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Bhawan here. "An orbit of around 300 km was chosen for the test for capability demonstration and the purpose was to avoid the threat of debris to any global space assets," Reddy said. His remarks come days after NASA raised concerns about the spread of debris from the A-SAT test India conducted under Mission Shakti. "The debris created following the intercept will decay in a matter of weeks," he added. Addressing the media persons, Reddy also said, "For a similar application we don't need another test." On Tuesday, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) had termed a "terrible thing" India's shooting down of its satellite, saying the hit-to-kill mission created about 400 pieces of orbital debris. "Some debris going up could be a possibility, as per our simulation also. We don't have information on that.. From our simulation, we can very clearly say that the possibilities of (debris) hitting the ISS are not there," Reddy said. He said the first 10 days since the test were critical and that have passed, and in 45 days all debris will disintegrate. The Ministry of External Affairs too has said the test was done in the lower atmosphere to ensure that there is no space debris. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had hailed the A-SAT test's success as "an unprecedented achievement" that makes India a "space power". Some 150 scientists, including at least 40 women scientists, worked round-the-clock, and especially in the last six months on this project. About 2,000 components were sourced from 50 private industries. The idea began around 2014 and development started in 2016 with a go-ahead from the government. The press interaction came days ahead of the first phase of the Lok Sabha polls on April 11 due to which the model code of conduct is in place. He also said that earlier in the day there was a meeting with eminent scientists to inform them about the A-SAT test. He also responded to a question on Congress leader P Chidambaram's criticism of the government on the test, who had said that "only a foolish government" would reveal a defence secret. "Mission of this nature after a test is conducted can't be kept secret. The satellite is tracked by many stations across the world. All necessary permissions were taken, Reddy said.

A-SAT: India chose much lower orbit to avoid debris threat to global space assets, says DRDO

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on March 27 that India had successfully shot down one of its own low-grade decommissioned satellites with the help of an indigenously made missile produced by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It was unclear which missile from the family of missiles India possesses was employed for this. With a process code-named Mission Shakti, India became the fourth country in the world to develop this specialised technology and successfully test it, after the US, Russia and China. The test was carried out off the coast of Odisha and on a low orbit satellite 300 km above surface level.&nbsp;

To a public, even of the reasonably well-informed variety, the downing of our own satellite by an Indian missile and going into celebration mode must appear rather strange. The military-strategic implications of the achievement will take a little time to sink once the brouhaha over the application of Election Commission norms to the announcement, gets over.&nbsp;

A simple explanation from a military point of view is given here. Remember, having an eye in the sky in the form of satellites is a major advantage for militaries, which possess such capability. Besides the operational strategic domain involving close surveillance, there is navigation for aircraft, surface vehicles, vessels at sea and personnel on foot. Pinpoint targeting of long-range missiles is possible because of these. With the development of armed drones, the US operators have been located in Florida, US, and homing the drones to their targets in Afghanistan with the help of satellite surveillance and navigation. Surveillance from space has distinct advantage, in that it is like a permanent drone in the sky and covering an area well beyond imagination. It makes the verifiability of agreement on limitation of troops, or early warning signals of troop movement much more credible. India’s massive mobilisation before it can go to war with either adversary is vulnerable due to satellite pick up. In today’s world the Internet and many other networks are dependent for their area coverage on satellites. Modern wars without network centricity are almost unthinkable. Similarly, war without the cyber domain activated for offensive or defensive tasks cannot be imagined today. Satellites provide the capacity for wide area coverage and can assist with both offensive and defensive exploitation of the cyber domain.&nbsp;

Since so much now depends on satellites, making your adversary’s eyes, ears and nodes in the sky vulnerable to incapacitation through a physical attack (by kinetic contact) or other means was an obvious measure that militaries would pursue. When a satellite or satellites are taken out or rendered unusable, the resultant effect is most felt on the Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capability of a nation or force. It helps in the efforts to remain ahead in the information and decision cycle. There are networks for command and control, control of artillery, logistics and communications, without which military operations are rendered almost ineffective. The US has been pursuing a programme focused on this from as early as 1959. The first test missed a satellite by a couple of kilometres but in 1962 and 1963 successful tests were conducted with ballistic missiles going up to a vertical height of 400 miles. It was the time of President Ronald Reagan that research took a different turn with the ‘Star Wars’ programme which was designed to destroy all incoming projectiles or unfriendly equipment in space through kinetic of directed energy means.&nbsp;

China commenced testing in 2007 but its very first test left a tremendous amount of space debris from the destruction of a low orbit older satellite. Debris in space resulting from the use of ASAT weapons, even for testing purposes, is a major challenge as even small particles can ram against functional satellites and damage them. It is reported by the UN Outer Space Affairs Department that only 1400 of the 19000 artificial objects being currently tracked in space are functional satellites, the rest mostly being debris. A set of UN guidelines on space debris have been formulated. India’s ASAT test was in a very low earth orbit thus mitigating the danger emerging from the resultant debris after the test.&nbsp;

So why has India undertaken the ASAT test? Firstly, much like nuclear weapons, ASAT could remain a strategic weapon for only deterrence and not be involved in actual war fighting although its direct life-threatening capability is lower by volumes. It is important to demonstrate the capability for deterrence especially since China has been developing its capability for fairly long. Secondly, it is always possible that a Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) kind of international agreement may force a moratorium on development and testing of ASAT in the future. That would leave India in the lurch and future testing against the treaty would draw sanctions and international ire. A physical test with data all canned gives a boost to strategic capability. While the MEA may have made the right move by discounting any objective or country being focused upon by India’s ASAT programme, it is important that the successful test has been done at a time when the subcontinent has just emerged from its latest crisis involving a near showdown between India and Pakistan. Pakistan is known for its copy cat approach and it could just be tempted to acquire such a capability of its own; of course with the assistance of its all-weather friend, China. Affordability is not something Pakistan usually looks at despite its almost paralysed economy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There are fast emerging technologies in this field and we have to hear more about India’s progress in the anti-ballistic missile (ABM) domain for a future ‘iron dome’ concept. The US and Russia have the capabilities of launching an ASAT from the ship, land and space, while India, presently, has used a land installation. No doubt progress towards that will also be made as ISRO has demonstrated.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-blinding-the-eye-in-the-sky-2734548">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on March 27 that India had successfully shot down one of its own low-grade decommissioned satellites with the help of an indigenously made missile produced by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on March 27 that India had successfully shot down one of its own low-grade decommissioned satellites with the help of an indigenously made missile produced by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It was unclear which missile from the family of missiles India possesses was employed for this. With a process code-named Mission Shakti, India became the fourth country in the world to develop this specialised technology and successfully test it, after the US, Russia and China. The test was carried out off the coast of Odisha and on a low orbit satellite 300 km above surface level. To a public, even of the reasonably well-informed variety, the downing of our own satellite by an Indian missile and going into celebration mode must appear rather strange. The military-strategic implications of the achievement will take a little time to sink once the brouhaha over the application of Election Commission norms to the announcement, gets over. A simple explanation from a military point of view is given here. Remember, having an eye in the sky in the form of satellites is a major advantage for militaries, which possess such capability. Besides the operational strategic domain involving close surveillance, there is navigation for aircraft, surface vehicles, vessels at sea and personnel on foot. Pinpoint targeting of long-range missiles is possible because of these. With the development of armed drones, the US operators have been located in Florida, US, and homing the drones to their targets in Afghanistan with the help of satellite surveillance and navigation. Surveillance from space has distinct advantage, in that it is like a permanent drone in the sky and covering an area well beyond imagination. It makes the verifiability of agreement on limitation of troops, or early warning signals of troop movement much more credible. India’s massive mobilisation before it can go to war with either adversary is vulnerable due to satellite pick up. In today’s world the Internet and many other networks are dependent for their area coverage on satellites. Modern wars without network centricity are almost unthinkable. Similarly, war without the cyber domain activated for offensive or defensive tasks cannot be imagined today. Satellites provide the capacity for wide area coverage and can assist with both offensive and defensive exploitation of the cyber domain. Since so much now depends on satellites, making your adversary’s eyes, ears and nodes in the sky vulnerable to incapacitation through a physical attack (by kinetic contact) or other means was an obvious measure that militaries would pursue. When a satellite or satellites are taken out or rendered unusable, the resultant effect is most felt on the Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capability of a nation or force. It helps in the efforts to remain ahead in the information and decision cycle. There are networks for command and control, control of artillery, logistics and communications, without which military operations are rendered almost ineffective. The US has been pursuing a programme focused on this from as early as 1959. The first test missed a satellite by a couple of kilometres but in 1962 and 1963 successful tests were conducted with ballistic missiles going up to a vertical height of 400 miles. It was the time of President Ronald Reagan that research took a different turn with the ‘Star Wars’ programme which was designed to destroy all incoming projectiles or unfriendly equipment in space through kinetic of directed energy means. China commenced testing in 2007 but its very first test left a tremendous amount of space debris from the destruction of a low orbit older satellite. Debris in space resulting from the use of ASAT weapons, even for testing purposes, is a major challenge as even small particles can ram against functional satellites and damage them. It is reported by the UN Outer Space Affairs Department that only 1400 of the 19000 artificial objects being currently tracked in space are functional satellites, the rest mostly being debris. A set of UN guidelines on space debris have been formulated. India’s ASAT test was in a very low earth orbit thus mitigating the danger emerging from the resultant debris after the test. So why has India undertaken the ASAT test? Firstly, much like nuclear weapons, ASAT could remain a strategic weapon for only deterrence and not be involved in actual war fighting although its direct life-threatening capability is lower by volumes. It is important to demonstrate the capability for deterrence especially since China has been developing its capability for fairly long. Secondly, it is always possible that a Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) kind of international agreement may force a moratorium on development and testing of ASAT in the future. That would leave India in the lurch and future testing against the treaty would draw sanctions and international ire. A physical test with data all canned gives a boost to strategic capability. While the MEA may have made the right move by discounting any objective or country being focused upon by India’s ASAT programme, it is important that the successful test has been done at a time when the subcontinent has just emerged from its latest crisis involving a near showdown between India and Pakistan. Pakistan is known for its copy cat approach and it could just be tempted to acquire such a capability of its own; of course with the assistance of its all-weather friend, China. Affordability is not something Pakistan usually looks at despite its almost paralysed economy. There are fast emerging technologies in this field and we have to hear more about India’s progress in the anti-ballistic missile (ABM) domain for a future ‘iron dome’ concept. The US and Russia have the capabilities of launching an ASAT from the ship, land and space, while India, presently, has used a land installation. No doubt progress towards that will also be made as ISRO has demonstrated. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Having an eye in sky in form of satellites is a major advantage for militaries

The US is tracking 250-270 objects of debris in the space generated due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-didnt-spy-on-indias-asat-test-pentagon-206628">India's anti-satellite (ASAT) missile test</a> in lower earth orbit, but the International Space Station or ISS is not at risk, the Pentagon said Friday.&nbsp;

US Strategic Command's Joint Force Space Component Command (JFSCC) said 250 pieces of debris associated with an Indian ASAT launch that occurred on Wednesday are being actively tracked.&nbsp;

"Debris from the event is being actively monitored by the JFSCC, and conjunction notifications are being issued to satellite owners/operators in accordance with standard notification processes through the Department of Defense's public space situational awareness sharing website HYPERLINK "http://www.Space-track.Org," it said.

The JFSCC said it will continue to actively track debris associated with the event and issue close approach notifications as required until the debris enters the earth's atmosphere.

US Air Force Space Command Commander Lt Gen David D Thompson told lawmakers during a Congressional hearing on Thursday that the JFSCC and Air Force's 18 space control Squadron are currently "tracking about 270 different objects in the debris" field.&nbsp;

Responding to questions from members of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, he said the number is going to grow as the debris field spreads out as the US collects more sensor information.

Thompson, however, refrained from giving any further details of the debris.

"But we do know the altitude at which it occurred. We immediately started providing public notice on our space track website and will provide direct notification to satellite operators, if those satellites are under threat," he said.

Responding to questions from lawmakers, Thompson said, "At this point in time, the International Space Station is not at risk."&nbsp;

The ISS orbits over 100 km higher than the orbit at which India carried out the ASAT test.&nbsp;

"That's another thing that we do and provide warning routinely. That's just an example of -no other nation --no other military force, no other civil or other body could have detected characterised and begun warning and providing the world, the way we do with air force and other joint assets," Thompson said.

Astronomer Jonathan McDowell from the prestigious Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics said India acted in a less irresponsible manner than the Chinese in doing the test.&nbsp;

"We don't know yet how much debris and how high. The United States has said that it's tracking about 250 pieces. But it will take them at least a few days, if not a few weeks to figure to catalogue those pieces," he told PTI.

Once the cataloguing is done, only then one could analyses how bad the situation is, he added.

Responding to a question, McDowell, who has been following India's space program since the 1970s, described the ASAT test as a "much more aggressive stance" even though it is presented as a defensive measure.

This is reflective of the ambitious and military side of the Indian space programme and is in response to China's aggressive space militarisation programme, he said.

Opposed to such tests, McDowell said, the Indian ASAT test was "relatively responsible" or "less responsible" than the Chinese ASAT test.&nbsp;

"Although I'm opposed to the test, I think that if you're going to do a test, that's a better way to do it.

"There will be debris that ends up in higher orbit but not as much and not as long left. The test at the level will ensure that the debris doesn't stay up for long periods of time, in contrast to what happened with the Chinese test, which was much higher up," he said.&nbsp;

"So that is relatively responsible. Certainly, they (Indians) have learned from the mistakes of the Chinese," said the American astronomer.

He said the Chinese debris&nbsp;hundreds of pieces in worst possible orbit - are still in the space.

The Indian debris might vanish and burn up when they come down in the next few months, while that of the Chinese might take decades to come down, McDowell said.&nbsp;

Well known space professional, Brian Weeden said China is one reason for India's test.&nbsp;

"India sees itself in competition with China for regional power and prestige and has been internally debating its own demonstration ever since the Chinese ASAT test in 2007," he said.

"The other factor is India's concern about being one of the "have nots" for ASAT weapons like they were for nuclear weapons, in the event of a future ban on ASAT testing," Weeden said.&nbsp;

But more tests like this risk creating space debris that could impact commercial business models for space, plus many of these new space companies feel strongly about social responsibility, he added.

The US is tracking 250-270 objects of debris in the space generated due to India's anti-satellite (ASAT) missile test in lower earth orbit, but the International Space Station or ISS is not at risk, the Pentagon said Friday.

The US is tracking 250-270 objects of debris in the space generated due to India's anti-satellite (ASAT) missile test in lower earth orbit, but the International Space Station or ISS is not at risk, the Pentagon said Friday. US Strategic Command's Joint Force Space Component Command (JFSCC) said 250 pieces of debris associated with an Indian ASAT launch that occurred on Wednesday are being actively tracked. "Debris from the event is being actively monitored by the JFSCC, and conjunction notifications are being issued to satellite owners/operators in accordance with standard notification processes through the Department of Defense's public space situational awareness sharing website HYPERLINK "http://www.Space-track.Org," it said. The JFSCC said it will continue to actively track debris associated with the event and issue close approach notifications as required until the debris enters the earth's atmosphere. US Air Force Space Command Commander Lt Gen David D Thompson told lawmakers during a Congressional hearing on Thursday that the JFSCC and Air Force's 18 space control Squadron are currently "tracking about 270 different objects in the debris" field. Responding to questions from members of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, he said the number is going to grow as the debris field spreads out as the US collects more sensor information. Thompson, however, refrained from giving any further details of the debris. "But we do know the altitude at which it occurred. We immediately started providing public notice on our space track website and will provide direct notification to satellite operators, if those satellites are under threat," he said. Responding to questions from lawmakers, Thompson said, "At this point in time, the International Space Station is not at risk." The ISS orbits over 100 km higher than the orbit at which India carried out the ASAT test. "That's another thing that we do and provide warning routinely. That's just an example of -no other nation --no other military force, no other civil or other body could have detected characterised and begun warning and providing the world, the way we do with air force and other joint assets," Thompson said. Astronomer Jonathan McDowell from the prestigious Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics said India acted in a less irresponsible manner than the Chinese in doing the test. "We don't know yet how much debris and how high. The United States has said that it's tracking about 250 pieces. But it will take them at least a few days, if not a few weeks to figure to catalogue those pieces," he told PTI. Once the cataloguing is done, only then one could analyses how bad the situation is, he added. Responding to a question, McDowell, who has been following India's space program since the 1970s, described the ASAT test as a "much more aggressive stance" even though it is presented as a defensive measure. This is reflective of the ambitious and military side of the Indian space programme and is in response to China's aggressive space militarisation programme, he said. Opposed to such tests, McDowell said, the Indian ASAT test was "relatively responsible" or "less responsible" than the Chinese ASAT test. "Although I'm opposed to the test, I think that if you're going to do a test, that's a better way to do it. "There will be debris that ends up in higher orbit but not as much and not as long left. The test at the level will ensure that the debris doesn't stay up for long periods of time, in contrast to what happened with the Chinese test, which was much higher up," he said. "So that is relatively responsible. Certainly, they (Indians) have learned from the mistakes of the Chinese," said the American astronomer. He said the Chinese debris hundreds of pieces in worst possible orbit - are still in the space. The Indian debris might vanish and burn up when they come down in the next few months, while that of the Chinese might take decades to come down, McDowell said. Well known space professional, Brian Weeden said China is one reason for India's test. "India sees itself in competition with China for regional power and prestige and has been internally debating its own demonstration ever since the Chinese ASAT test in 2007," he said. "The other factor is India's concern about being one of the "have nots" for ASAT weapons like they were for nuclear weapons, in the event of a future ban on ASAT testing," Weeden said. But more tests like this risk creating space debris that could impact commercial business models for space, plus many of these new space companies feel strongly about social responsibility, he added.

US tracking 250-270 objects from Indian ASAT test debris: Pentagon

A day after India's successful anti-satellite missile test, DRDO Chairman G Sateesh Reddy said that ASAT missile programme started a few years back and entered ‘mission mode’ six months ago.&nbsp;

About 100 scientists worked around the clock to reach the intended launch date target, he added.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> DRDO Chairman GS Reddy to ANI says, “NSA (Ajit Doval) whom we report to on strategic matters gave direction to go ahead with the test &amp; he had the concurrence from PM. The development started a few years back &amp; we went into mission mode in last 6 months.” <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MissionShakti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MissionShakti</a> <a href="https://t.co/QPoPobC9pp">pic.twitter.com/QPoPobC9pp</a>
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According to Reddy, National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval, who had the concurrence from the prime minister, gave the go-ahead for the test.&nbsp;

DRDO reports to Doval on strategic matters.&nbsp;

Reddy said A-SAT missile was capable of targeting all ‘Low Earth Orbit’ (LEO) satellites and has a range of up to a 1000 Kilometers plus.&nbsp;

''We have the ability to handle LEO satellites but we intentionally chose at low altitudes as a responsible nation to see that all the space assets are safe and debris decayed fast,'' he added.

The missile has been developed specifically as an anti-satellite weapon, Reddy said and added, it&nbsp;has the technologies developed for ballistic missile defence applications, particularly the kill vehicle.

A day after India's successful anti-satellite missile test, DRDO Chairman G Sateesh Reddy said that ASAT missile programme started a few years back and entered ‘mission mode’ six months ago.

A day after India's successful anti-satellite missile test, DRDO Chairman G Sateesh Reddy said that ASAT missile programme started a few years back and entered ‘mission mode’ six months ago. About 100 scientists worked around the clock to reach the intended launch date target, he added. #WATCH DRDO Chairman GS Reddy to ANI says, “NSA (Ajit Doval) whom we report to on strategic matters gave direction to go ahead with the test & he had the concurrence from PM. The development started a few years back & we went into mission mode in last 6 months.” #MissionShakti pic.twitter.com/QPoPobC9pp — ANI (@ANI) March 28, 2019 × According to Reddy, National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval, who had the concurrence from the prime minister, gave the go-ahead for the test. DRDO reports to Doval on strategic matters. Reddy said A-SAT missile was capable of targeting all ‘Low Earth Orbit’ (LEO) satellites and has a range of up to a 1000 Kilometers plus. ''We have the ability to handle LEO satellites but we intentionally chose at low altitudes as a responsible nation to see that all the space assets are safe and debris decayed fast,'' he added. The missile has been developed specifically as an anti-satellite weapon, Reddy said and added, it has the technologies developed for ballistic missile defence applications, particularly the kill vehicle.

ASAT missile project began 2 years ago, went into 'mission mode' in last 6 months, says DRDO Chairman

How China plans to disrupt GPS through ASAT in 2020 & beyond

After <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-intention-of-entering-into-arms-race-in-outer-space-india-after-asat-test-206023">India said it tested the ASAT</a> (anti-satellite) missile to "verify" that the country has the "capability to safeguard our space assets", Pakistan's foreign ministry said there is a need to address gaps in the international space laws to ensure that no one threatens peaceful activities and applications of space technologies for socio-economic development.

"Pakistan has been a strong proponent of prevention of arms&nbsp;race in outer space. Space is the common heritage of mankind and every nation has the responsibility to avoid actions which can lead to the militarization of this arena," it said.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yEBlFh5knKw" width="560"></iframe>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-low-earth-orbit-satellite-against-which-india-launched-a-surgical-strike-in-space-205974">India's Ministry of external affairs</a>( MEA) had said that the country had no intention of entering into an arms race in outer space. New Delhi supports UNGA resolution 69/32 on No First Placement of Weapons on Outer Space and has called for substantive legal measures to ensure the prevention of an arms race in outer space. India has also ratified the 1967 Outer Space Treaty which prohibits weapons of mass destruction in outer space.

Pakistan foreign ministry added that boasting of such capabilities is reminiscent of Don Quixote’s tilting against windmills.

Since the test was done in the lower atmosphere, India has said, there isn't much space debris. PM Modi announced on Wednesday morning that &nbsp;India had become an "elite space power" after it shot down a low earth orbit satellite with an ASAT missile. The operation was named "Mission Shakti".

Modi said he wanted to clarify to the world's powers that this new technology was not meant to be used against any country, but that it was for India's defence.&nbsp;

He added India is against a space race, and that "we still follow this policy".&nbsp;

"We did not violate any international treaty," he added.&nbsp;

After India said it tested the ASAT (anti-satellite) missile to "verify" that the country has the "capability to safeguard our space assets", Pakistan's foreign ministry said there is a need to address gaps in the international space laws to ensure that no one threatens peaceful activities and applications of space technologies for socio-economic development.

After India said it tested the ASAT (anti-satellite) missile to "verify" that the country has the "capability to safeguard our space assets", Pakistan's foreign ministry said there is a need to address gaps in the international space laws to ensure that no one threatens peaceful activities and applications of space technologies for socio-economic development. "Pakistan has been a strong proponent of prevention of arms race in outer space. Space is the common heritage of mankind and every nation has the responsibility to avoid actions which can lead to the militarization of this arena," it said. India's Ministry of external affairs( MEA) had said that the country had no intention of entering into an arms race in outer space. New Delhi supports UNGA resolution 69/32 on No First Placement of Weapons on Outer Space and has called for substantive legal measures to ensure the prevention of an arms race in outer space. India has also ratified the 1967 Outer Space Treaty which prohibits weapons of mass destruction in outer space. Pakistan foreign ministry added that boasting of such capabilities is reminiscent of Don Quixote’s tilting against windmills. Since the test was done in the lower atmosphere, India has said, there isn't much space debris. PM Modi announced on Wednesday morning that India had become an "elite space power" after it shot down a low earth orbit satellite with an ASAT missile. The operation was named "Mission Shakti". Modi said he wanted to clarify to the world's powers that this new technology was not meant to be used against any country, but that it was for India's defence. He added India is against a space race, and that "we still follow this policy". "We did not violate any international treaty," he added.

Every nation has responsibility avoid actions which lead to militarisation of space: Pak on India's ASAT test

India's successful <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-low-earth-orbit-satellite-against-which-india-launched-a-surgical-strike-in-space-205974">anti-satellite missile test </a>on Wednesday showed that the country now possesses the capability to strike satellites in outer space with centimetre-level accuracy and precision, DRDO chairman G Satheesh Reddy said.

Reddy, who oversaw the top-secret operation, said the government accorded clearance to the project around two years back with an aim to deter threats to the country's space assets.&nbsp;

In a major feat, a DRDO-developed missile destroyed a low-orbiting satellite in a critical test that catapulted India as a space power alongside the US, China and Russia.

"It is a great achievement for India as the technology used for the test has been completely developed indigenously," Reddy said.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-YoqknWpdLs" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

"The test was a reflection of India's growing capability to develop critical technology and it will act as a good deterrence," he said adding India was the fourth country to go for an anti-satellite missile test after the United States, Russia and China.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) said a Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) Interceptor Missile successfully engaged an Indian orbiting target satellite in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) in a 'Hit to Kill' mode.&nbsp;

"The interceptor missile was a three-stage missile with two solid rocket boosters. Tracking data from range sensors has confirmed that the mission met all its objectives," it said.

The test was conducted, under 'Mission Shakti' operation, from the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island in Odisha.

Reddy said the test has demonstrated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mission-shakti-how-chinas-long-march-on-asat-missile-technology-threatens-elite-club-206054">India's capability to defend</a> its assets in outer space and is a reflection of the country's growing capability to develop critical technology. 
&nbsp; 
"The shooting down of a satellite with a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-satellite-technology-will-be-deterrent-in-event-of-space-war-experts-206072">missile reflected </a>that we have matured to develop technology which could achieve accuracy in terms of centimetres" said Reddy, adding clearance for the project was given over two years back.

"The project was implemented in the fastest way possible and it showed the DRDO's capability in doing such programmes," he said.&nbsp;

Reddy said the technology used has been completely developed indigenously and now India stands as one of the four nations to have it.

India is emerging as a major technologically advanced nation in space sector, he said.

The DRDO said the test has once again proven the capability of indigenous weapon systems.&nbsp;

India is yet to have a comprehensive national security doctrine. However, a joint operational doctrine for the Army, the Navy and the Air Force, released in April 2017 had proposed to set up a 'Defence Space Agency' to deal with issues relating to outer space.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the ministry of external affairs said the test was not directed against any country and that India has no intention of entering into an arms race in outer space.

"The test is not directed against any country. India's space capabilities do not threaten any country and nor are they directed against anyone," the MEA said in a 10-point explainer on the anti-satellite missile test.

India's successful anti-satellite missile test on Wednesday showed that the country now possesses the capability to strike satellites in outer space with centimetre-level accuracy and precision, DRDO chairman G Satheesh Reddy said.

India's successful anti-satellite missile test on Wednesday showed that the country now possesses the capability to strike satellites in outer space with centimetre-level accuracy and precision, DRDO chairman G Satheesh Reddy said. Reddy, who oversaw the top-secret operation, said the government accorded clearance to the project around two years back with an aim to deter threats to the country's space assets. In a major feat, a DRDO-developed missile destroyed a low-orbiting satellite in a critical test that catapulted India as a space power alongside the US, China and Russia. "It is a great achievement for India as the technology used for the test has been completely developed indigenously," Reddy said. "The test was a reflection of India's growing capability to develop critical technology and it will act as a good deterrence," he said adding India was the fourth country to go for an anti-satellite missile test after the United States, Russia and China. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) said a Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) Interceptor Missile successfully engaged an Indian orbiting target satellite in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) in a 'Hit to Kill' mode. "The interceptor missile was a three-stage missile with two solid rocket boosters. Tracking data from range sensors has confirmed that the mission met all its objectives," it said. The test was conducted, under 'Mission Shakti' operation, from the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island in Odisha. Reddy said the test has demonstrated India's capability to defend its assets in outer space and is a reflection of the country's growing capability to develop critical technology. "The shooting down of a satellite with a missile reflected that we have matured to develop technology which could achieve accuracy in terms of centimetres" said Reddy, adding clearance for the project was given over two years back. "The project was implemented in the fastest way possible and it showed the DRDO's capability in doing such programmes," he said. Reddy said the technology used has been completely developed indigenously and now India stands as one of the four nations to have it. India is emerging as a major technologically advanced nation in space sector, he said. The DRDO said the test has once again proven the capability of indigenous weapon systems. India is yet to have a comprehensive national security doctrine. However, a joint operational doctrine for the Army, the Navy and the Air Force, released in April 2017 had proposed to set up a 'Defence Space Agency' to deal with issues relating to outer space. Meanwhile, the ministry of external affairs said the test was not directed against any country and that India has no intention of entering into an arms race in outer space. "The test is not directed against any country. India's space capabilities do not threaten any country and nor are they directed against anyone," the MEA said in a 10-point explainer on the anti-satellite missile test.

ASAT technology completely developed indigenously: DRDO chief

Mission Shakti: How China's long march on ASAT missile technology threatens elite club

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-countries-should-will-uphold-peace-tranquility-in-outer-space-china-after-indias-asat-test-206043">All countries should uphold peace &amp; </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-countries-should-will-uphold-peace-tranquility-in-outer-space-china-after-indias-asat-test-206043">tranquility</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-countries-should-will-uphold-peace-tranquility-in-outer-space-china-after-indias-asat-test-206043"> in outer space: China after India's ASAT test</a>

China expressed hope that all countries will&nbsp;uphold peace and tranquillity&nbsp;in the outer space after &nbsp;India's ASAT(anti-satellite missile) test.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khans-comments-taken-out-of-context-and-misinterpreted-pak-clarifies-to-afghanistan-206022">Imran Khan's comments taken out of context and misinterpreted: Pak clarifies to Afghanistan&nbsp;</a>

Pakistan's Foreign Ministry moved on Wednesday to cool a row with Afghanistan over reported comments by Prime Minister Imran Khan that were taken to suggest that Kabul should set up an interim government to help smooth peace talks with the Taliban.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-diffrences-tusk-urges-eu-parliament-to-be-open-to-long-brexit-extension-206032">Amid differences, Tusk urges EU Parliament to be open to long Brexit extension</a>

EU Council president&nbsp;Donald Tusk has said&nbsp;the organization should be "open to a long extension if the UK wishes to rethink its Brexit strategy".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-intention-of-entering-into-arms-race-in-outer-space-india-after-asat-test-206023">No intention of entering into </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-intention-of-entering-into-arms-race-in-outer-space-india-after-asat-test-206023">arms</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-intention-of-entering-into-arms-race-in-outer-space-india-after-asat-test-206023"> race in outer space: India after ASAT test</a>

India has said it has no intention of&nbsp;entering into an arms race&nbsp;in outer space and Anti-Satellite Missile(ASAT) test was done just to "verify" that the country has the "capability to safeguard our space assets."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-expels-ex-interpol-chief-meng-from-communist-party-206008">China expels ex-Interpol chief Meng from Communist Party</a>

China has expelled&nbsp;former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei&nbsp;from the Communist Party and dismissed him from his official positions, the country's graft watchdog announced Wednesday.

&nbsp;

All countries should uphold peace & tranquility in outer space: China after India's ASAT test China expressed hope that all countries will uphold peace and tranquillity in the outer space after India's ASAT(anti-satellite missile) test.

All countries should uphold peace & tranquility in outer space: China after India's ASAT test China expressed hope that all countries will uphold peace and tranquillity in the outer space after India's ASAT(anti-satellite missile) test. Imran Khan's comments taken out of context and misinterpreted: Pak clarifies to Afghanistan Pakistan's Foreign Ministry moved on Wednesday to cool a row with Afghanistan over reported comments by Prime Minister Imran Khan that were taken to suggest that Kabul should set up an interim government to help smooth peace talks with the Taliban. Amid differences, Tusk urges EU Parliament to be open to long Brexit extension EU Council president Donald Tusk has said the organization should be "open to a long extension if the UK wishes to rethink its Brexit strategy". No intention of entering into arms race in outer space: India after ASAT test India has said it has no intention of entering into an arms race in outer space and Anti-Satellite Missile(ASAT) test was done just to "verify" that the country has the "capability to safeguard our space assets." China expels ex-Interpol chief Meng from Communist Party China has expelled former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei from the Communist Party and dismissed him from his official positions, the country's graft watchdog announced Wednesday.

China expressed hope that all countries will <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-intention-of-entering-into-arms-race-in-outer-space-india-after-asat-test-206023">uphold peace and tranquillity</a> in the outer space after &nbsp;India's ASAT(anti-satellite missile) test.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday had announced that India successfully t<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/every-nation-has-responsibility-avoid-actions-which-lead-to-militarization-of-space-pak-on-indias-asat-test-206036">est-fired an anti-satellite missile </a>by shooting down a live satellite, describing it as a rare achievement that puts the country in an exclusive club of space superpowers.

The test makes India the fourth country in the world after the US, Russia and China to acquire the strategic capability to shoot down enemy satellites.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-YoqknWpdLs" width="560"></iframe>

The Chinese foreign ministry, in a written statement on India successfully test-firing an anti-satellite missile, said: "We have noticed reports and hope that each country will uphold peace and tranquillity in outer space".

China had conducted a similar test in January 2007 when its anti-satellite missile destroyed a defunct weather satellite.

Prime Minister Modi said in New Delhi that the action was not directed against any country and the satellite was a pre-determined target orbiting at an altitude of 300 km.

He said India did not breach any international laws or treaties by testing the anti-satellite missile.

Mission Shakti, which was led by the Defence Research and Development Organisation(DRDO), was aimed at strengthening India's overall security, PM Modi said.

In New Delhi, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement that India has no intention of entering into an arms race in outer space.

"We have always maintained that space must be used only for peaceful purposes. We are against the weaponisation of outer&nbsp;space and support international efforts to reinforce the safety and security of space-based assets," the MEA said.

China expressed hope that all countries will uphold peace and tranquillity in the outer space after India's ASAT(anti-satellite missile) test. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday had announced that India successfully test-fired an anti-satellite missile by shooting down a live satellite, describing it as a rare achievement that puts the country in an exclusive club of space superpowers.

China expressed hope that all countries will uphold peace and tranquillity in the outer space after India's ASAT(anti-satellite missile) test. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday had announced that India successfully test-fired an anti-satellite missile by shooting down a live satellite, describing it as a rare achievement that puts the country in an exclusive club of space superpowers. The test makes India the fourth country in the world after the US, Russia and China to acquire the strategic capability to shoot down enemy satellites. The Chinese foreign ministry, in a written statement on India successfully test-firing an anti-satellite missile, said: "We have noticed reports and hope that each country will uphold peace and tranquillity in outer space". China had conducted a similar test in January 2007 when its anti-satellite missile destroyed a defunct weather satellite. Prime Minister Modi said in New Delhi that the action was not directed against any country and the satellite was a pre-determined target orbiting at an altitude of 300 km. He said India did not breach any international laws or treaties by testing the anti-satellite missile. Mission Shakti, which was led by the Defence Research and Development Organisation(DRDO), was aimed at strengthening India's overall security, PM Modi said. In New Delhi, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement that India has no intention of entering into an arms race in outer space. "We have always maintained that space must be used only for peaceful purposes. We are against the weaponisation of outer space and support international efforts to reinforce the safety and security of space-based assets," the MEA said.

All countries should uphold peace & tranquility in outer space: China after India's ASAT test

India has said it has no intention of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-low-earth-orbit-satellite-against-which-india-launched-a-surgical-strike-in-space-205974">entering into an arms race</a> in outer space and Anti-Satellite Missile(ASAT) test was done just to "verify" that the country has the "capability to safeguard our space assets."

The test, Mission Shakti which was carried out by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/all-you-need-to-know-about-mission-shakti-indias-anti-satellite-missile-test-205998">Defence Research and Development Organisation</a> (DRDO) and was conducted from the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island launch complex.&nbsp;

Remember that has been a long-standing policy of the Indian government there should not be any weaponisation of Outer Space and that space must be used only for peaceful purposes.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yEBlFh5knKw" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

The Ministry of external affairs( MEA) frequently asked questions (FAQ) released after the test said, "India believes that Outer space is the common heritage of humankind and it is the responsibility of all space-faring nations to preserve and promote the benefits flowing from advances made in space technology and its applications for all."

With this test, according to the FAQ, "India was able to demonstrate its capability to intercept a satellite in outer space based on complete indigenous technology. DRDO’s Ballistic Missile Defence interceptor was used to target an Indian satellite."

On the question of why the test was done now, India said since it had "acquired the required degree of confidence to ensure its success".

Since the test was done in the lower atmosphere, India has said, there isn't much space debris. Finance minister Arun Jaitley in a presser said, "In a matter of three weeks the whole environment will be debris free".

New Delhi in the past has participated in Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination (IADC) activities with regard to space debris management.

India has also already clarified that the test is not against any country and the test provides deterrence against threats.

India is a party to all the major international treaties relating to Outer Space.

New Delhi supports UNGA resolution 69/32 on No First Placement of Weapons on Outer Space and has called for substantive legal measures to ensure the prevention of an arms race in outer space.

India has also ratified the 1967 Outer Space Treaty which prohibits weapons of mass destruction in outer space. 
&nbsp;

India has said it has no intention of entering into an arms race in outer space and Anti-Satellite Missile(ASAT) test was done just to "verify" that the country has the "capability to safeguard our space assets.

India has said it has no intention of entering into an arms race in outer space and Anti-Satellite Missile(ASAT) test was done just to "verify" that the country has the "capability to safeguard our space assets." The test, Mission Shakti which was carried out by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and was conducted from the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island launch complex. Remember that has been a long-standing policy of the Indian government there should not be any weaponisation of Outer Space and that space must be used only for peaceful purposes. The Ministry of external affairs( MEA) frequently asked questions (FAQ) released after the test said, "India believes that Outer space is the common heritage of humankind and it is the responsibility of all space-faring nations to preserve and promote the benefits flowing from advances made in space technology and its applications for all." With this test, according to the FAQ, "India was able to demonstrate its capability to intercept a satellite in outer space based on complete indigenous technology. DRDO’s Ballistic Missile Defence interceptor was used to target an Indian satellite." On the question of why the test was done now, India said since it had "acquired the required degree of confidence to ensure its success". Since the test was done in the lower atmosphere, India has said, there isn't much space debris. Finance minister Arun Jaitley in a presser said, "In a matter of three weeks the whole environment will be debris free". New Delhi in the past has participated in Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination (IADC) activities with regard to space debris management. India has also already clarified that the test is not against any country and the test provides deterrence against threats. India is a party to all the major international treaties relating to Outer Space. New Delhi supports UNGA resolution 69/32 on No First Placement of Weapons on Outer Space and has called for substantive legal measures to ensure the prevention of an arms race in outer space. India has also ratified the 1967 Outer Space Treaty which prohibits weapons of mass destruction in outer space.

No intention of entering into arms race in outer space: India after ASAT test

All you need to know about Mission Shakti, India's Anti-Satellite Missile test

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