Russia Tests Anti-Satellite Missile Without Warning

Yesterday, the crew on the International Space Station had to take cover after Russia tested a direct-ascent anti-satellite strike against a Russian satellite which created flying debris. The US called the test ‘a reckless and dangerous act’ and said that it ‘won’t tolerate’ behavior that puts international interests at risk. US officials emphasized the long-term dangers and potential global economic fallout from the test which created hazards for satellites that provide people around the world with phone and broadband service, weather forecasting, GPS systems which underpin aspects of the financial system, including bank machines, as well in-flight entertainment and satellite radio and television.

US Space Command’s Commander General James Dickinson said “Russia has demonstrated a deliberate disregard for the security, safety, stability, and long-term sustainability of the space domain for all nations, the debris created by Russia’s da-asat will continue to pose a threat to activities in outer space for years to come, putting satellites and space missions at risk, as well as forcing more collision avoidance maneuvers. space activities underpin our way of life and this kind of behavior is simply irresponsible.”