Russia’s ASAT Test: What Does it Mean?

On April 15, 2020, the U.S. government announced Russia had conducted a direct-ascent ASAT test earlier that day. While the test does not appear to have been aimed at destroying a particular satellite, it suggests a continued trend towards the increasing acceptability of ASAT tests. The test should also be seen in the context of Russia’s overall counterspace program and ongoing counterspace capability efforts in the United States, China, and elsewhere.

In response SWF convened a virtual panel of experts to discuss what we actually know about the test, examine what it may mean in light of Russia and others’ counterspace capabilities, explore non-U.S. perspectives on the significance of the test, and discuss what impact it may have on emerging norms and the responsible use of space.

Speakers

• Chris Newman, Northrumbia University
• Pavel Podvig, Russian Nuclear Forces Project
• Victoria Samson, Secure World Foundation
• Michael Thompson, amateur satellite analyst
• Brian Weeden, Secure World Foundation

Download the PPT presentation here. 

Video - Click here to download the transcript. 

Media:

Don't panic about Russia's recent anti-satellite test, experts say, Space.com