Russia successfully tested 'killer' satellite

The Russian Space Forces have successfully tested a satellite capable of flying close to other spacecraft, observing them and intercepting them if necessary, a source in the Russian Defense Ministry said.

Russia tests "killer" satellite. Illustration photo

During the test, the satellite separated from the near-Earth station called Universe-2519, which was launched on June 23, 2017. The device changed its orbit, returned to the station and observed it.

The results of the military satellite test were to check ground and orbital communications, test ballistic calculation methods and software; and confirm the ability to automatically unload the satellite from the station, remotely control its flight and use on-board equipment.

Similar "killer" satellites in the long term are designed not only to monitor other devices, but also to intercept spacecraft, which are an important element of the Russian orbital group, acting as a deterrent to the military race in space.

According to Sputnik