Anti-Satellite Weaponry: Keeping America's Satellites Safe and Sound

Satellites are foundational to American interests and capabilities across a variety of industries. Anti-satellite (ASAT) weapons that disable or destroy satellites pose threats to the U.S. and the international community generally. American space systems planners should harden and our protect satellite systems against the threat of ASAT weapons by increasing system redundancy and satellite radiation hardening, establishing “Do-Not-Orbit” zones, equipping reconnaissance and intelligence satellites with optical protectors, and ensuring satellites are equipped with sufficient maneuverability capabilities to avoid known threats. While the U.S. maintains preeminence in ASAT weaponry, it should construct international norms and pursue diplomatic efforts to prevent further ASAT tests, head off an ASAT arms race, and hinder the proliferation of ASAT weapons across the globe.

Brian Britt is a senior in the School of Foreign Service studying Science and Technology in International Affairs. He is a co-founder of the Georgetown University Space Initiative.