## 3 Risks in the Space Mission
### Network and Cybersecurity Risks in Space Missions  
Network and cybersecurity risks in space missions are crucial to address, as they can have significant consequences on the operation and safety of the mission. Several main factors contribute to these risks [31; 32; 33; 34]:  
* Satellite Vulnerabilities: Satellites are exposed to various vulnerabilities due to their complex systems, which include software, firmware, and hardware components. Weaknesses in any of these areas can be exploited by hackers or malicious actors to gain unauthorized access, disrupt communications, or take control of the satellite. * Communication Security: Space missions rely on communication links between ground stations, satellites, and spacecraft. These communication channels are susceptible to interception, eavesdropping, or jamming, which can compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the transmitted data. Ensuring secure and encrypted communication is crucial to mitigate these risks. * Spacecraft Operations: Spacecraft are vulnerable to cyber threats throughout their operational lifecycle. This includes the pre-launch phase, where attackers may target ground-based systems, such as mission control centers or satellite assembly facilities, to compromise the spacecraft's security. During the mission, potential risks include unauthorized access to onboard systems, alteration of commands, or interference with critical functions. * Supply Chain Security: Space missions involve a complex supply chain with a wide range of suppliers. Each entity within the supply chain introduces potential vulnerabilities, making it essential to ensure the security of the components, software, and services used in space systems. Any compromise in the supply chain can lead to backdoors, malware, or other vulnerabilities being introduced into the mission-critical systems. * Space Traffic Management: The increasing number of satellites and space objects in orbit raises concerns about space traffic management and collision avoidance. Cybersecurity risks come into play when it comes to coordinating and managing the communication and data exchange between different satellites, ground-based control systems, and space traffic control centers. Unauthorized access to these systems or tampering with the data could lead to collisions or other hazardous situations. * Mission Data Protection: Space missions generate vast amounts of sensitive data, including scientific data, proprietary information, and operational details. Safeguarding this data from unauthorized access, theft, or tampering is crucial. Encryption, access controls, secure data storage, and robust authentication mechanisms are essential to protect mission data from cyber threats. * Ground Systems Security: Ground-based systems, including mission control centers, ground stations, and data processing facilities, are critical components of space missions. These systems are vulnerable to various cyber threats, such as malware infections, insider attacks, or social engineering attacks targeting the personnel responsible for operating the systems. Implementing robust security measures, conducting regular audits, and training personnel on cybersecurity best practices are necessary to protect ground systems. Addressing these main factors requires a comprehensive and layered approach to network and cybersecurity in space missions. It involves incorporating secure design principles, employing encryption and authentication mechanisms, conducting regular risk assessments, implementing intrusion detection and prevention systems, and establishing robust incident response plans to mitigate the impact of potential cyber-attacks. Network and cybersecurity risks during the planning and conducting of space missions encompass a range of challenges that need to be addressed to ensure the success and security of the mission.