A new study described by multiple outlets proposes a method to detect nuclear weapons concealed on satellites in space using a constellation of very small “detector satellites.” The concept, developed by MIT nuclear science and engineering associate professor Areg Danagoulian, addresses concern that a nuclear detonation in low Earth orbit could damage or destroy other satellites and make certain orbital regions unusable. The paper argues that there is currently no reliable capability to detect or safely neutralize a nuclear device in space.
Danagoulian’s approach uses shoebox-sized, cubesat-class spacecraft (about “9U” in form factor) carrying specialized radiation sensors. The proposed inspector satellites would move into an orbit aligned with a suspected spacecraft and then maneuver to within a few kilometers—on the order of 2.5 miles (4 km)—to collect data. The detection strategy relies on measuring radiation signatures expected when protons interact with material in a thermonuclear device, producing distinct neutron emissions through proton-induced neutron spallation.
The study outlines a sensor design combining neutron and proton-sensitive detectors, including a “cage of diamond” arrangement intended to filter particle types and help infer the direction of incoming neutrons. Results would be gathered over roughly a week per satellite, with a 10-satellite constellation potentially reducing the time. If a weapon is identified, the proposal suggests interfering with communications links to prevent remote detonation. The paper is reported as published in Nature.
