In the 21st century, humanity finds itself closer to space than ever before. Imagination has become reality with the advent of commercial space travel and the establishment of deep-space communication networks. As we embrace this new era of space exploration, we must explore the space security implications. Last September, I had the privilege of attending UNIDIR’s flagship Outer Space Security Conference 2024 (OS24) in Geneva, Switzerland, where I participated as part of one of the youth video competition winners. Through this experience and by observing those working on the frontlines of space security, I was able to gain insight into the perspectives they hold, particularly in terms of the technical aspects.
What do we mean by ‘space security’? Despite its importance, many people are unfamiliar with the term. In many countries, the terms ‘security’ and ‘safety’ are often used interchangeably, which can make things more confusing. Space security is concerned with the maintenance of international peace and security, and disarmament, including the prevention of an arms race in outer space. Whereas, space safety is commonly understood to refer to measures aimed at preventing accidental or unintentional hazards to space systems.
Space safety along with space security are integral aspects of the broader concept — space sustainability. Acknowledging this complementarity will facilitate future discussions on space security.
OS24 focused on three primary areas: the policy, legal and technical aspects of space security. The legal and policy discussions were particularly fascinating, as they introduced new ways of thinking about issues. Simply developing a product is not the end goal; it requires the ability to monitor its functioning in accordance with the regulations agreed upon by States as well as allowing for coordination according to mutual agreements.
The introduction of new technologies can therefore lead to improved accuracy and reliability compared to previous methods. Space law and policy, which define these regulations, have evolved alongside the advancement of human technology. With the rapid technological development of the 21st century, it has become even more crucial to respond promptly to these changes.
Merely streamlining procedures is not sufficient; recognizing and adapting these frameworks to new technologies is essential. The conference also emphasized the need for establishing, refining and anticipating regulations in light of the burgeoning space market. While new entrants, such as startups and emerging spacefaring nations, may introduce complexity, it is vital to maintain an atmosphere of collaboration as participation increases. Given that space is inherently linked to military considerations, it is crucial to approach this field with caution. We must collectively strive to avoid falling into a cycle of arms competition.
Space hardware and cybersecurity risks
OS24 touched upon technical aspects of space security, including spacecraft hardware, outer space orbits, and post-processing of data. Regarding spacecraft hardware, satellites and space launch vehicles are essential components of space security. Internal sensors and communication devices constitute the backbone of these systems, as all activities in space rely on this equipment. One can think of these satellites as specialized counterparts to everyday smartphones, designed for specific functionalities. This means that they share similar vulnerabilities, including potentially becoming targets for hacking. Given the substantial costs involved in satellite deployment, they can attract the attention of individuals with malicious intent aiming to exploit existing technologies.
This does not entail the dramatic scenarios often depicted in science fiction, such as commandeering and destroying devices. While such actions are indeed forms of hacking, threats also include unauthorized replication of data from other satellites, violating intellectual property rights, or altering existing firmware to reconfigure a satellite for one’s own purposes. Hackers could also create backdoors to transmit fabricated data back to their home country. The risk of subtle modifications going unnoticed can lead to significant repercussions during later stages of data processing. Furthermore, traditional tactics may still pose a threat, such as launching a satellite equipped with hardware designed to disrupt or damage other satellites. Related technologies have already been developed and implemented, and there are laws in place to regulate them, which is why continuous attention is necessary.
Space debris and orbit management
Outer space orbits are also an important aspect to consider, especially given that – as highlighted during OS24 – space is currently filled with a significant amount of debris. Satellites are positioned at various altitudes from low Earth orbit (LEO) to geostationary orbit (GEO) and polar orbit, depending on their distance from Earth. Satellites in GEO are in free-fall motion, maintaining a precise balance with Earth’s gravity, which allows them to stay in the same orbit without the need for significant adjustments.
Other satellites are affected by gravity, causing them to drift from their orbits, and therefore require continuous orbital corrections. Satellites that have completed their mission and remain inoperative in orbit are also referred to as space debris. In GEO, space debris remains in orbit unless it changes its trajectory, as it moves at the same speed as the Earth. On the other hand, smaller derelict satellites among the space debris in LEO gradually re-enter the atmosphere and disintegrate, lingering in space until they burn up.
Because missions in LEO are far more numerous than those in other orbits, space debris in LEO is significantly more abundant. This space debris poses a physical threat to operational satellites, potentially causing damage and interference. Currently, there are approximately 130 million pieces of debris moving at speeds of up to 8 km/s making it difficult to avoid them. While we can implement collision avoidance strategies, this does not equate to a solution to the underlying problem. To address this issue effectively, we must recognize that space debris plays a critical role in space security and should begin removing space debris while preventing its further accumulation.
The removal of space debris is not a straightforward task though; it involves complex and challenging procedures. For instance, many CubeSats will adopt a disposal strategy starting in 2025 that involves deorbiting and incinerating the satellites upon their mission’s completion. If we fail to manage the issue of space debris adequately, operational satellites may be damaged through collision, leading to an even greater proliferation of debris. Such scenarios can and must be averted. Without proactive measures, we could face a future where Earth’s ability to explore space is severely restricted by the accumulation of debris.
Data post-processing and security considerations
One must also consider the post-processing of data, specifically the raw observational data and the corrected data that results from post-processing. As mentioned during OS24, States, industry and other stakeholders already have data collection and monitoring processes to some extent through various tools. The significance of raw data can vary depending on how the information is interpreted during post-processing.
For instance, a satellite image of a country is raw data. This data contains a large amount of information before it is processed. Afterward, it is processed by different organizations according to their objectives, which allows it to be transformed for specific purposes. If observing weather patterns, for example, the data becomes weather information; if analysing traffic conditions, it turns into traffic data. In a military context, it could be used to assess the progress of enemy operations or the overall disposition of troops.
The same data can lead to many different outcomes. Information beyond what was originally collected can be further organized and potentially used for purposes such as military secrets or espionage. This does not imply, however, that we must monitor every step of the post-processing of data.
Just as space security is crucial, so is information protection. These data sets are vital assets that reflect the technological capabilities and expertise of individual nations and companies. However, leaving such important issues solely to individual judgment in the realm of information security is problematic. With the advancement of AI, the importance of data is increasingly emphasized, prompting us to consider how we can effectively navigate this landscape. Today, everything in our world is interconnected through binary data. It is becoming increasingly apparent that systematically organizing data which leaves ample room for interpretation is essential for effective policymaking.
Collaboration for a secure space future
In the new space era, international cooperation is becoming more important than ever. Trust between nations is essential for continuing future missions. However, if the transparency regarding the purpose of data collection is not shared, trust in shared resources will be compromised. Through OS24 and the youth video competition experience, I had the opportunity to witness experts from around the world come together to discuss a common purpose and collaboratively shape the path forward.
Previously, my perspective was primarily rooted in engineering. I have now come to realize that progress in space exploration must be intertwined with policy considerations. Space regulations should be continuously updated in line with technological advancements, and measures to enhance hardware security and prevent space debris generation must be implemented. Comprehensive monitoring strategies for post-processing data should also be established. Through these efforts, countries must collaborate and take steps toward the new space era.
O Junyoung is currently majoring in Electrical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering at Korea Aerospace University. He has a strong interest in artificial systems launched into space, with particular focus on their electronic design.
This commentary is a special feature of UNIDIR’s Youth Engagement initiative. The author, O Junyoung, was a selected winner of the Outer Space Security Conference 2024 Youth Campaign. The views expressed in the publication are the sole responsibility of the individual author and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the UN, UNIDIR nor their staff members or sponsors.