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U.S. Says Russian Test Has Created Debris Field in Space

Russia has conducted an anti-satellite weapons test, creating more than 1,500 pieces of “trackable” orbital debris, according to U.S. officials.

The International Space Station as photographed by Expedition 56 crew members from a Soyuz spacecraft after undocking in 2018. [Courtesy: NASA]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Russia conducted an anti-satellite weapons test, creating over 1,500 pieces of trackable orbital debris and hundreds of thousands of smaller fragments.
  • This debris significantly increases the risk to astronauts and spacecraft, including the International Space Station, whose crew was forced to seek temporary shelter.
  • The U.S. State Department condemned Russia's actions as dangerous and irresponsible, stating they jeopardize the long-term sustainability of outer space.
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Russia has conducted an anti-satellite weapons test, creating more than 1,500 pieces of “trackable” orbital debris, according to the U.S. Department of State.

During a press briefing Monday, spokesman Ned Price condemned Russia’s operations.

Jeremy Kariuki

Jeremy attained his bachelor's in journalism and emerging media from Kennesaw State University. He also served in the Georgia Air National Guard as a C-130 Crew Chief for six years, holding an associate in aircraft maintenance technology.

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