Growing Hacking Threats to Satellite Systems Necessitate Global Push to Secure Outer Space
As the reliance on space systems such as GPS, satellite imagery, and internet services rapidly grows, the need for stronger cybersecurity measures increases. In response, experts from various nations are working collectively to develop the next generation of secure-by-design space systems that extend cybersecurity from ground stations to satellites. Given the complex nature of space systems, this is a daunting task, but it is crucial to protect outer space from catastrophic cyberattacks that could cause massive damage.
The Importance of Building Cybersecurity into Outer Space Systems
Recent incidents of cyberattacks on communication systems for satellites such as Viasat during the beginning of the Ukraine war and ongoing intrusions by Russian hackers into U.S. satellite systems have emphasized the importance of building cybersecurity into space systems. In response, nations worldwide have allocated more resources towards securing space systems.
Gregory Falco, a cybersecurity expert at Johns Hopkins University and co-chair of the Space Systems Cybersecurity Standard working group, highlights the importance of secure-by-design specifications and standards for various aspects of a space system. However, the transition of space technology from one mainly dominated by government agencies to the private sector means increased demand for off-the-shelf space products, which have greater cybersecurity risks.
Building International Cybersecurity Standards for Space Systems
The IEEE Space Systems Cybersecurity Standard working group, which consists of experts from across the globe, seeks to establish voluntary international standards for securing space systems. These guidelines and standards would provide technical best practice guidance on how to protect space systems from cyber-attacks. Karabalut Kurt, an associate professor at Polytechnique Montréal and a member of the working group, emphasized the importance of standardization to help global partners use the same products. IEEE standards, which are widely adopted by regulatory bodies, are well-known around the world and help promote global cybersecurity measures.
Lack of Specific Cybersecurity Standards for Space Systems
Although regulatory bodies such as NASA’s Space Asset Protection Standard, Japan’s Guidelines on Cybersecurity Measures for Commercial Space Systems, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology have developed guidelines for space systems, they are not specific enough to address the increasing threats to cybersecurity. Critics call for specific recommendations tailored to modular spacecraft that provide critical information to the public.
Necessary Collaboration with Cybersecurity Professionals
Experts suggest that more cybersecurity professionals should participate in the development of cybersecurity standards for space systems. The presence of adequate cybersecurity professionals would ensure that the best technical guidance is provided to protect space systems efficiently. The role of space professionals and policy experts in providing future policy recommendations is also vital. Ultimately, the development of standards and implementation of best practices internationally on cybersecurity measures for space systems would help protect outer space from cyber threats.
Editorial
As human reliance on space systems grows, so too does the need for enhanced cybersecurity measures. Cybersecurity threats to space systems not only impact the countries that operate these systems but also impact the rest of the world. Damage or destruction to space systems could cause a ripple effect that affects all nations and their citizens. The recent move of space technology from a government monopoly to a private sector creates new challenges and opportunities for the development of space cybersecurity standards. The voluntary international standards that the IEEE Space Systems Cybersecurity Standard working group intends to establish, accompanied by dedicated efforts from cybersecurity professionals, policymaking experts, and space professionals, could set the groundwork for effective cybersecurity measures to safeguard space systems.
Advice
As the demand for space systems grows, so too does the threat to their cybersecurity. Implementing best practices outlined by regulatory bodies such as NASA’s Space Asset Protection Standard and the National Institute of Standards and Technology is recommended. Also, considering investing in cybersecurity defense measures and seeking cybersecurity professionals to develop threat prevention strategies could help protect space systems from cyber threats. The future policy recommendations proposed by space policy experts would provide additional guidance in this quest to safeguard global space systems.
<< photo by USGS >>
