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Detecting Atomic Weapons in Space

The large majority of satellites are in Low-Earth Orbit, including the handful seen in this image. The Outer Space Treaty prohibits weapons in space, but some are suspicious that Russia is experimenting with them because they placed a suspicious satellite in Low-Earth Orbit. New research proposes a method to detect atomic weapons in space, to keep signatories to the Outer Space Treaty honest. Image Credit: NOAA.

The Outer Space Treaty from 1967 prohibits weapons in space. But a satellite launched by Russia has generated suspicion. Despite claims that it's a normal satellite, some things about it suggest otherwise. New research proposes a way to detect atomic weapons in space, helping enforce the treaty.



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