CURRENT AFFAIRS

Detailed explanation-1: -The interceptor struck a test satellite at a 283 km (176 mi) altitude in low Earth orbit (LEO), thus making Mission Shakti a successful ASAT missile test.

Detailed explanation-2: -Mission Shakti: India tests its first anti-satellite missile system, codenamed Mission Shakti | PM Modi.

Detailed explanation-3: -A DRDO developed A-SAT Missile successfully engaged an Indian orbiting target satellite in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) in a ‘Hit to Kill’ mode. The interceptor missile was a three-stage missile with two solid rocket boosters. Tracking data from range sensors had confirmed that the mission met all its objectives.

Detailed explanation-4: -’Mission Shakti’ was launched during the 15th Finance Commission period 2021-22 to 2025-26. Mission Shakti is an integrated women empowerment programme is launched as an umbrella scheme for the safety, security and empowerment of women for implementation.

Detailed explanation-5: -History of ASATs When the Soviet Union launched the world’s first satellite Sputnik 1 in 1957, the US feared their cold war rivals would develop an orbital network of nuclear-armed satellites. It responded with its first ASAT, an air-launched ballistic missile called Bold Orion.