Weapons, Space

A space weapon is any destructive device aimed to either operate in or take effect in space, with space defined as beginning approximately 37 miles above sea level. Space weapons can be categorized into two groups according to their design: (1) kinetic energy weapons and (2) directed energy weapons (DEWs). Kinetic energy weapons draw their destructive energy from their momentum, ramming into their target. They can also be equipped with chemical explosives to heighten their destructive power. DEWs utilize beams to destroy a target, usually in the form of high-energy lasers, particle beam weapons, or high-power radio frequency. DEWs can be earth-based laser weapons, with mirrors in orbit to reflect the beam to its intended target. When [Page 1663]space based, DEWs are propelled by either ...