Cybersecurity for Space & Satellite Systems

Course Overview

This specialized course addresses the critical intersection of cybersecurity and space systems. As space infrastructure becomes increasingly vital to global communications, navigation, and security, protecting these assets from cyber threats has never been more important. The course provides a comprehensive understanding of the unique cybersecurity challenges in space environments and practical approaches to securing space systems throughout their lifecycle.

What You'll Learn

Module 1: Space Systems Security Landscape

• The evolving threat landscape for space systems
• Key stakeholders and regulatory frameworks
• Historical incidents and case studies
• Unique challenges of securing space assets

Module 2: Space System Vulnerabilities

• Ground segment vulnerabilities
• Space segment attack surfaces
• User segment security concerns
• Supply chain security considerations
• RF and communications vulnerabilities

Module 3: Threat Actors and Attack Vectors

• Nation-state capabilities and motivations
• Non-state actors and their techniques
• Insider threats in space organizations
• Common attack patterns and methodologies
• Advanced persistent threats in space contexts

Module 4: Security Frameworks for Space

• Adapting NIST frameworks for space systems
• Space Information Sharing and Analysis Center (ISAC)
• International standards and best practices
• Security classification considerations
• Risk assessment methodologies for space assets

Module 5: Secure Space System Design

• Security architecture for satellites
• Cryptographic considerations for space
• Secure boot and trusted computing
• Hardware security modules for space applications
• Radiation effects on security implementations

Module 6: Communications Security

• Secure TT&C (Tracking, Telemetry and Command)
• Anti-jamming and anti-spoofing techniques
• Link encryption and key management
• Secure broadcast protocols
• Authentication mechanisms for space links

Module 7: Operational Security Practices

• Security operations centers for space systems
• Incident response in space environments
• Recovery and resilience planning
• Anomaly detection in satellite operations
• Security monitoring and auditing

Practical Applications

The course includes hands-on exercises:

• Building a threat model for a representative satellite system
• Conducting risk assessments for ground infrastructure
• Developing security requirements for space missions
• Analyzing security logs and detecting anomalies
• Designing secure protocols for space-ground communications

Industry Relevance

This course provides critical knowledge for professionals working in:

• Satellite operators and manufacturers
• Space agencies and defense organizations
• Critical infrastructure dependent on space systems
• Cybersecurity firms specializing in space assets
• Regulatory bodies and policy makers

The skills developed are directly applicable to protecting the growing constellation of commercial and government space assets that underpin modern digital infrastructure.