Re: Chinese ASAT strike was third try; had mobile element

On 22 Apr, 14:31, Allen Thomson <thoms...@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:
Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. T. Michael Moseley says the launch
system used by the Chinese incorporated a mobile platform, displaying
a worrisome level of flexibility on the part of this potential
adversary. The two earlier attempts also used a mobile launch system,
the intelligence official added.

And just a teeny bit more:

===============

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-satellite22apr22...

Review ordered into vulnerability of U.S. satellites
China's destruction of one of its spacecraft raises Pentagon concern
about the vulnerability of orbiting U.S. probes.
By Peter Spiegel, Times Staff Writer
April 22, 2007

[megasnippage]

U.S. officials have said little about the intelligence gathered on
Chinese anti-satellite capabilities. In Capitol Hill testimony last
month, Marine Gen. James E. Cartwright, head of the U.S. Strategic
Command, said China launched three missiles as part of the anti-
satellite test in January, hitting the target on the third try.

"What was impressive was that in three attempts, they made significant
changes each time," Cartwright said.

How easy would it be to make a satellite stealth?

The core of the satellite should be easily shaped for stealth,
especially if the only worry is upwards looking radar. The solar
panels may be more difficult, though thin film panels could be
transparent to radar.

Whilst satellites don't emit much heat, I suspect against the space
background they would show up pretty hot.

The US could also launch decoy satellites, though at low altitude
these won't have a long orbital life.

.

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