other nations. On the hand, with proper safeguards, multilateral deployment of such defensive systems could be internationally stabilizing. b) A variety of antisatellite (ASAT) systems. These include DEW’s, space- to-space missiles (either rockets or projectiles), space mines, and grapplers (either manned or remotely operated). Except for DEW's and small projectile weapons, a comprehensive space surveillance system should be able to detect and track such weapons, making it difficult to attack without warning. c) Reentry vehicles for Earth bombardment with either conventional high explosives or nuclear warheads. Although it would be difficult to defend against such weapons, comprehensive space surveillance should be able to detect such vehicles upon launch. Any foreseeable non-nuclear weapons which could be added to SPS would be less threatening than the strategic nuclear arsenals already deployed on Earth. With certain engineering modifications, C3I modules having tactical and strategic significance could be added to a Satellite Power System. The most significant such additions which are unique to SPS (due to the availability of large quantities of electrical power) are EW jammers and direct broadcast to the population of a hostile country. Given the necessary technological advances, the power satellites could be used as a power source (with laser transmission) for military satellites or to allow long-duration flight of military aircraft at high altitudes. Depending on technology advancement and on range, relay satellites might be necessary. 3.7 References and Notes 1. The full text of the Treaty on Principles appears as Appendix A in Carl Q. Christol, "Satellite Power System (SPS): International Agreements," HCP/R- 4024-08, ODE/NASA, October 1978. 2. Robert J. Salkeld, "Space Intercepters: An Investigation of Seven Main Parameters," J. Spacecraft 8, 541-543 (1971). 3. Robert Salkeld, War and Space, Prentice-Hall, New York, 1970. 4. Particle Beam Weapons, collected reprints from Aviation Week and Space Technology issues of May 2, 1977; October 2, 9, & 16, 1978; and November 6 & 13, 1978. McGraw Hill, Inc., New York, 1978. 5. "ABM Promise Seen in Space-Based Lasers," Aviation Week and Space Technology, p. 15, October 8, 1979.
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