Theory of satellite fragmentation in orbit Satellite fragmentation and orbital debris Physical processes underlying satellite fragmentations Gabbard diagram of breakup fragments Velocity perturbations of breakup fragments Explosive fragmentation of rocket bodies Soviet anti satellite tests Solwind P78 1 fragmentation : US anti satellite test The Delta 180 collision experiment in space SPOT 1 Ariane rocket fragmentation Fengyun 1C fragmentation : Chinese anti satellite test Irdium 33 and Cosmos 2251 collision in orbit Explosive fragmentation of Briz M rockets. For over half a century an increasing number of satellites have fragmented in orbit creating a large amount of hazardous orbital debris which threaten the safety of useful functioning satellites and space missions. This book discusses the theory behind the fragmentation followed by studies of actual cases. The book begins with a survey of satellite fragmentation in orbit and the consequent formation of orbital debris in chronological order. Next the fundamental physical processes underlying satellite fragmentation are outlined and the methods of analyzing satellite fragmentation presented. The rest of the book presents analyses of the major satellite fragmentation events including accidental and intentional breakups those due to explosions and collisions as well as those belonging to the unknown category