Defending a distributed space architecture will require more computing power and decentralized monitoring, with a shift toward edge computing and advanced analytics for rapid, localized responses.

Cybersecurity requirements are being moved earlier in the acquisition process, with zero-trust principles, a secure software supply chain, and hardware integrity tracking mandated from the outset.

A zero-trust reference architecture for space vehicles is being developed to apply zero-trust concepts to satellites, enabling edge-based continuous monitoring and autonomous anomaly detection while reducing bandwidth by transmitting only critical alerts.

Cyber threats against space systems are growing more sophisticated and multi-domain, targeting the entire space architecture from ground links to satellites and space-to-space interactions, as warned by the Space Force and industry leaders.

Future satellite designs will need greater compute capacity for added capabilities over a satellite’s life, and deploying AI at the edge will bring new cybersecurity challenges.

Securing space systems requires a comprehensive understanding of the supply chain and addressing vulnerabilities at integration seams, not just within individual components.

Contractors are increasingly required to provide digital twins of space systems to enable cyber testing, red-teaming, and operator training before deployment.

Legacy spacecraft and older systems remain vulnerable as new technologies are integrated, expanding the attack surface even when individual components are hardened.