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This overview aims to inform the public discussion of space-based weapons by examining their characteristics, potential attributes, limitations, legality, and utility. The authors do not argue for or against space weapons, nor do they estimate the potential costs and performance of specific programs, but instead sort through the realities and myths surrounding space weapons in order to ensure that debates and discussions are based on fact.
Table of Contents
Chapter One
Introduction
Chapter Two
Background
Chapter Three
Space Weapons Kinds and Capabilities
Chapter Four
Employment
Chapter Five
How Might the United States Acquire Space Weapons?
Chapter Six
How Might Others Acquire Space Weapons?
Chapter Seven
Conclusion
Appendix A
Space-Based Directed-Energy Weapons
Appendix B
Kinetic-Energy Space Weapons
Appendix C
Natural Meteoroides as Weapons
Appendix D
Ballistic Missile Defense Countermeasures
"… This book is recommended to those wishing to be informed about space weapons. I am not aware of any other book that is as comprehensive. Whether you are for or against space weapons this book provides the material upon which to base your arguments. If you are interested in the military use of space or in national security policy, this is a book for you."
- Physics and Society
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