Number: RS22652
Title: China's Anti-Satellite Weapon Test
Authors: Shirley Kan, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division 
Abstract: On January 11, 2007, the People's Republic of China (PRC) conducted its first successful direct-ascent anti-satellite (ASAT) weapons test in destroying one of its own satellites in space. The test raised international concerns about more space debris. Longer-term, the test raised questions about China's capability and intention to attack U.S. satellites. The purpose of this CRS Report, based on open sources and interviews, is to discuss that ASAT test by China's military, the People's Liberation Army (PLA), and issues about U.S. assessments and policies.
Pages: 6
Date: April 23, 2007