7 Facts About Mission Shakti, ASAT Of DRDO

New Delhi: On Wednesday, PM Narendra Modi addressed the nation. It was a special televised announcement. Anti-satellite missile (ASAT) of DRDO has shot down a low-orbital satellite in three minutes. He termed this test as "Mission Shakti". We are serving you the 7 important facts About Mission Shakti, ASAT Of DRDO.

India conducted its first anti-satellite (ASAT) missile in this test. It successfully destroying a low earth orbit satellite in space. ASAT uses a missile. It covers a distance of 300 km to engage the target. India joined the United States, China, and Russia as a Superpower with ASAT.

Here Are The 7 Facts About Mission Shakti, ASAT Test Of DRDO1. What is Mission Shakti?

On March 27, 2019, India conducted an anti-satellite missile test. 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 test: India has tested and successfully demonstrated its capability to interdict and intercept a satellite in outer space based on complete indigenous technology.

2. Which missile/interceptor was used as the ASAT?

The DRDO's Ballistic Missile Defence interceptor was used, which is part of the ongoing ballistic missile Defence programme.

3. Why did we do the test?

India has a long-standing and rapidly growing space programme. It has expanded rapidly in the last five years. The Mangalyaan Mission to Mars was successfully launched. Thereafter, the government-sanctioned Gaganyaan Mission. It will take Indians to outer space.

India has undertaken 102 spacecraft missions consisting of communication satellites, earth observation satellites, experimental satellites, navigation satellites, apart from satellites meant for scientific research and exploration, academic studies and other small satellites. India's space programme is a critical backbone of India's security, economic and social infrastructure.

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.

4. Why was the test done now?

The tests were done after DRDO 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.

5. 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.

India expects to play a role in the future in the drafting of international law on prevention of an arms race in outer space including inter alia on the prevention of the placement of weapons in outer space in its capacity as a major space-faring nation with proven space technology. India is not in violation of any international law or Treaty to which it is a party or any national obligation.

6. Does an ASAT strike create space debris?

The test was done in the lower atmosphere to ensure that there is no space debris. Whatever debris is generated will decay and fall back onto the earth within weeks.

7. Is the ASAT test directed against any country?

The ASAT test is not directed against any country. India's space capabilities do not threaten any country and nor are they directed against anyone.

At the same time, the government is committed to ensuring the country's national security interests and is alert to threats from emerging technologies. The capability achieved through the anti-satellite missile test provides credible deterrence against threats to our growing space-based assets from long-range missiles and proliferation in the types and numbers of missiles.

Some of the information written above has been sourced from the Ministry of External Affairs.