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Active Defenses could Defend Satellites Against Attack (3536)

Countries can use active defenses like decoys or defensive satellites to protect their space assets from attack.

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Evidence

Satellites Could be Defended with Built-in Self-Defense Capability
 
The ability for a satellite to defend itself against an ASAT attack is a reasonable way to increase the survivability of a high-value space system. One method of self-defense would be to design a suite of optical or radar sensors and small, lightweight missiles into the satellite. Analysts estimate that employment of an on-board self-defense system would increase the total system cost by between ten and twenty percent of the total satellite cost. Alternatively, a small escort satellite carrying the same capabilities might be a more capable system, especially if the goal was to detect, track and intercept the ASAT while the primary satellite continued its mission. ( More ... )
Wilson, Tom. Threats to United States Space Capabilities. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Space Commission, 2001. [ 8 quotes ]
On-board Decoys could Defend Satellites from Attack
 
Decoys that credibly simulate the radar and optical signatures of the satellite are effective, potentially low-cost methods for diverting an ASAT attack from the actual satellite. The decoy would be located on or inside the host satellite and released at the precise moment for the most effective deployment. Decoys could also include lightweight optical or RF jamming systems to nullify or confuse an ASAT's homing system. Analysts estimate that employment of a decoy system would increase the total system cost by between one and ten percent of the total satellite cost. ( More ... )
Wilson, Tom. Threats to United States Space Capabilities. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Space Commission, 2001. [ 8 quotes ]
Satellites could be Equipped with Evasion Technologies to Detect and Avoid Some Incoming ASATs
 
The United States could research and develop technologies that would "harden" satellites to the point where they could evade or survive attacks. This approach requires a variety of different mechanisms to be incorporated into new satellite designs. First, satellites could be equipped with sensors to detect incoming ballistic weapons and rockets so they can maneuver out of the way of a kinetic kill vehicle. While this option would likely require too much fuel to be practical for bigger satellites, increased maneuverability could work against a rudimentary ballistic missile system like the current Chinese design. Better ASAT guidance and tracking systems, however, could neutralize satellite maneuvering efforts by allowing an ASAT weapon to change course as it approaches the targeted satellite.
Walsh, Frank M. "Forging a Diplomatic Shield for American Satellites: The Case For Reevaluating The 2006 National Space Policy in Light of a Chinese Anti-Satellite System." Journal of Air Law and Commerce. Vol. 72 (Fall 2007): 759. [ 28 quotes ] [ page 777 ]