# Cybersecurity in space: Protecting orbital infrastructure We talked with Space Computer's CTO about securing space systems. - **Source:** [CyberWire Daily](https://brifing.si/source/08fbf94c-e51b-42cb-be13-84db10e5d993) - **Published:** 2026-08-23 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/17ca46d4-f889-4304-94f7-cf9fddb12769 ## Expansion of space infrastructure The number of satellites and other space infrastructure is rapidly increasing. This growth brings cybersecurity risks. According to Filip Rezabek, CTO of Space Computer, space system security is now as critical as space access. Commercial and military satellites face diversifying threats. As of 2023, there are over 8,000 active satellites in orbit. The density increases collision and cyber attack risks. ## Chain of trust model Establishing a 'chain of trust' is fundamental for space systems. This model requires verification of all components from hardware to software. Rezabek highlights supply chain attacks as major risks. For example, compromised satellite components can endanger entire systems. NASA's 2022 report detailed these vulnerabilities. The model ensures end-to-end security validation across complex systems. ## Hardware security challenges Securing space hardware presents unique difficulties. Physical access becomes impossible after launch, making pre-launch measures critical. Space Computer develops radiation-hardened security chips. These maintain security in extreme conditions. Similar technologies are used in SpaceX's Starlink satellites. The chips withstand cosmic radiation while performing cryptographic operations reliably. ## Software security approaches Cryptography and software updates play vital roles in space systems. Traditional methods need adaptation for space environments. Unlike terrestrial cloud systems, delayed update strategies are necessary. Lockheed Martin announced a specialized security OS for space last year. It includes advanced algorithms for command verification and authorization in constrained environments. ## Supply chain vulnerabilities Complex space system supply chains create security gaps. A single satellite may incorporate components from thousands of suppliers. Rezabek notes semiconductor supply disruptions as particular risks. The US Space Force published new supply chain standards in 2021. These mandate verification of component origins and manufacturing processes to prevent tampering. ## Need for international cooperation Space cybersecurity requires global collaboration as satellites share orbits. NATO recently established a new working group on space cybersecurity. ESA conducts joint exercises with member states. Rezabek emphasizes adopting open standards across the industry. Such cooperation is vital for commercial satellite operators facing common threats. ## Next-gen security technologies Quantum cryptography and AI are opening new frontiers in space security. Space Computer develops ML-based anomaly detection systems. These identify unusual communication patterns. The US DoD announced $500M investment in quantum communication satellites. China plans a quantum-secure satellite network by 2030. These technologies promise unhackable communication channels. ## Future of space cybersecurity Orbital infrastructure security is strategically important for digital economies and national defense. Rezabek predicts the space cybersecurity market will exceed $10B within 5 years. Public-private partnerships will play key roles. Space is becoming an exciting career field for next-gen security experts. Startups like Space Computer are pioneering this transformation while addressing critical security gaps in final frontier. ## Sources covering this story - https://thecyberwire.com/podcasts/tminus-space-cyber-briefing/721/notes — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._