The US is concerned that the test of Russia’s anti-satellite weapon has created a debris field in space
The US Space Command confirmed that a rare and potentially dangerous “fragmentation event” took place but did not provide details or mention Russia. Two officials said the State Department was preparing to issue a statement later today.
These types of events are usually caused by anti-satellite weapon tests that involve a ground-based missile hitting a satellite and creating a large debris field. One of the officials said a surface-to-surface missile was launched at a target in orbit.
“We are actively working to characterize the debris field and will continue to ensure all space nations have the information they need to maneuver satellites if impacted,” the spokesperson said. of the Space Command said. “We are also in the process of working with cross-agency agencies, including the State Department and NASA, regarding these reports and will provide an update in the near future.”
On Monday, the crew aboard the International Space Station had to quickly put on space suits and jump into their spacecraft in case the station was hit by some flying debris, according to the space agency’s space agency. Russia, ROSCOSMOS. It remains unclear whether that particular piece of debris was created from the test of a Russian anti-satellite weapon.
NASA and the State Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
This story is broken and will be updated.
