SECURING SPACE SYSTEMS: ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS ACROSS THE LIFECYCLE

Abstract

The growing commercialization, militarization, and technological complexity of space missions have increased the exposure of space systems to cyber threats. Ensuring cybersecurity across the lifecycle of space software is essential to preserve mission integrity, continuity, and trust. This paper presents a comprehensive engineering approach to securing space systems, emphasizing the integration of cyber resiliency principles from design to decommissioning. We examine preventive measures, including threat modeling, secure design, and testing; detection strategies leveraging host- and network-based intrusion detection systems; responsive mechanisms for containment and mitigation; recovery procedures to restore system functionality; and adaptive evolve processes for continuous learning and improvement. We highlight how lifecycle-driven cybersecurity enables robust, resilient, and trustworthy space systems.