What’s Mission Shakti?
On March 2019, DRDO conducted Mission Shakti, an anti-satellite missile test, from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island launch complex. One of India’s existing satellites operating in lower orbit used in the mission. The test was successful on all parameters. India has made it clear that its space capabilities aren’t directed against anyone and the government is committed to safeguarding the country’s national security interest.
Why did we test now?
Test was done after India acquired the required degree of confidence to ensure its success. India has no intention of entering into an arms race in outer space. India is officially against weaponization of outer space and supports international efforts to reinforce the safety and security of space-based assets.
What technology was used?
DRDO’s ballistic missile defence interceptor was used. India used Kinetic Kill, a space technology in which India has developed capability.
How did the test produce space debris?
Test was done in lower atmosphere to ensure no space debris. Whatever debris was generated will decay and fall on the earth within two weeks.
What is the international law on space? Is India a party to it?
The principal international treaty on space is the 1967 Outer Space Treaty. India is a signatory and ratified it in 1982. The Outer Space Treaty prohibits only weapons of mass destruction in outer space. India expects to play a key role in the drafting of an international law on prevention of arms race in outer space.
Does India have a global rank in it?
India has become the fourth country after the US, Russia and China to acquire the capability of space warfare when Indian scientists successfully shot down a live satellite target in the low earth orbit (LEO).
What is LEO?
Low earth orbit refers to an altitude up to 2,000 km. A satellite in the LEO can monitor activities on the ground and water surfaces. Such a satellite can be used for espionage and pose serious threat to the country’s security in the instances of war.
An anti-satellite missile, the one that was fired by the scientists of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), can target an LEO satellite. The missile can incapacitate or completely destroy the satellite in the LEO range.
Why else is Mission Shakti special?
Entire effort is indigenous.