Workshop on the Security of Space and Satellite Systems (SpaceSec) 2026

In recent years, the number of satellites in orbit has surged dramatically, driven by the deployment of large-scale mega-constellations such as Starlink and OneWeb. Current projections estimate that more than 100,000 satellites will be launched in the coming decade, positioning satellite communication as a critical backbone of both consumer services and essential infrastructures.

Space-based systems are now providing a wide array of vital societal functions—ranging from global navigation and positioning, to telecommunication, Earth observation, and IoT connectivity. Yet, their central role in modern infrastructure also makes them highly attractive targets for cyber attacks. This risk is not theoretical: the attack on ViaSat during the early stages of the war in Ukraine and persistent disruptions of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) worldwide highlight the tangible threats facing the domain.

Concerns about the cybersecurity of satellite systems have circulated since the mid-2000s, echoed in both academic research and hacker communities. Recent publications at leading security venues have reignited these debates, demonstrating that many long-standing vulnerabilities remain unresolved—and are now magnified by the unprecedented scale of satellite deployment. This raises a pressing question: why do these issues persist, despite years of awareness?

The answer lies, at least in part, in the unique nature of the space environment. The constraints of satellite design, deployment, and operation introduce challenges unlike those found in terrestrial systems. Addressing them requires novel approaches and interdisciplinary research at the intersection of space systems and cybersecurity.