How do we ensure the security of space applications?

What threats do space systems face?

When we examine space systems, we typically consider four distinct segments: the ground segment, which is responsible for communicating with satellites and other space vehicles; the link segment, which includes the communication link between the ground and space segments; the space segment itself, which includes satellites and other space vehicles; and the user segment, which encompasses all user electronics that interact with the space infrastructure, such as navigation systems in cars and phones.

A holistic approach to security is necessary to protect each of these segments. Now, let's focus on hardware security, particularly its importance in space electronics. There has been an increasing reliance on third-party intellectual property (IP) and commercial computer-aided design (CAD) tools in developing these critical systems. This dependency introduces potential security risks, as these third-party components may contain vulnerabilities or even malicious elements like hardware Trojans.

Space electronics are also particularly susceptible to cyber-physical attacks, which can be remotely executed to cause physical damage to systems. For instance, an attacker could activate a Trojan embedded in the control system of a satellite, potentially causing catastrophic failures during its operation.
We must also consider physical attacks on the electronics in the ground and user segments. Any cybersecurity breach in these segments could compromise the entire system. Additionally, space electronics face the challenge of long-term reliability, as they are expected to operate for extended periods without maintenance. Ensuring the security of these systems over decades, especially as new threats like quantum computing emerge, is a daunting task.

An emerging risk

Quantum computing, for example, poses a significant risk to current encryption methods used in securing space systems. As quantum computers become a reality, they could potentially break existing encryption, rendering today's secure systems vulnerable in the future. While new encryption standards are being developed to counteract these threats, space electronics designers face the challenge of deploying systems today that must remain secure for decades.

Furthermore, implementing security measures in space electronics often incurs additional resource overhead, such as increased energy consumption, which is a critical concern in the resource-constrained environment of space. Therefore, designers must carefully balance the trade-off between functionality and security.

In conclusion, while emerging technologies like quantum computing and AI offer new possibilities, they also introduce new threats that must be considered when designing secure space systems. These challenges underscore the complexity of ensuring hardware security in the evolving landscape of space applications.

Meeting the challenges

To help meet these challenges and to equip the sector with the key skills to ensure space systems are secure, myself and colleagues in the Space South Central region are delivering a new ‘Securing the future of space: Space Software and Data/AI’ CPD course.

As part of the course, which is funded through UK Space Agency’s Training Programmes Fund, we are running a module that looks at addressing the critical challenges associated with hardware security in space applications. We will also provide an in-depth analysis of the primary threats impacting the supply chain of integrated circuits. Finally, we will explore the principles of software-based attacks on hardware, particularly as they apply to this unique context.

How you can keep the sector safe 

Understanding the design of secure chips for space applications will offer significant benefits both to the participants and the companies they represent. By gaining insights into the challenges and solutions related to hardware security in space, participants will be better equipped to anticipate and mitigate risks associated with the supply chain of integrated circuits, thus ensuring the integrity and reliability of their systems.

For the companies they work for, this knowledge translates into several key advantages:

• Enhanced security: Companies will be able to develop and deploy more secure space systems, reducing the risk of cyber-physical attacks that could lead to costly disruptions or failures.
• Competitive advantage: By staying ahead of emerging threats, companies can position themselves as leaders in the space industry, offering more robust and secure products and services.
• Regulatory compliance: Understanding the latest security challenges and standards will help companies ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, avoiding potential legal and financial penalties.
• Innovation and growth: By adopting advanced security practices, companies can foster innovation, attract more clients, and expand their market share in the growing space sector.