>> martin: the research being done at the starfire optical range in albuquerque, new mexico, was kept secret for many years-- and for a good reason, which only becomes apparent at night. first, the roof of one building is opened to the stars. then, the walls retract, and an object straight out of "star wars" appears, shooting a laser into the sky. if you thought space was a peaceful haven, think again. >> it's a competition that i wish wasn't occurring, but it is. and if we're threatened in space, we have the right of self-defense, and we'll make sure we can execute that right. >> martin: and use force if necessary. >> that's why we have a military. you know, i'm not nasa. >> kroft: i'm steve kroft. >> stahl: i'm lesley stahl. >> safer: i'm morley safer. >> whitaker: i'm bill whitaker. >> pelley: i'm scott pelley. those stories tonight on "60 minutes."

>> martin: the research being done at the starfire optical range in albuquerque, new mexico, was kept secret for many years-- and for a good reason,

>> martin: the research being done at the starfire optical range in albuquerque, new mexico, was keptrs-- and for a good reason, which only becomes apparent at night.