Securing the Final Frontier: How space cybersecurity is shaping our future and how Hijack Communications helped bring this story to light.
The space industry stands at a critical juncture. With the global space economy projected to reach £1.79 trillion by 2035, the sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, but with it comes equally unprecedented cybersecurity challenges that could determine the fate of our space-based infrastructure.
At Hijack Communications, we specialise in transforming complex technical insights into compelling narratives that drive industry engagement. The University of Portsmouth’s recent blog, How Do We Ensure the Security of Space Applications?, exemplifies how critical research can be made accessible to wider audiences. We were delighted to support the University of Portsmouth in developing content that highlights this vital work, helping to shape industry understanding of these emerging threats.
The Hidden Vulnerabilities Above Us
In the blog, Dr Basel Halak reveals how space systems face unique cybersecurity challenges across four critical segments: ground operations, communication links, space-based assets, and user devices. Unlike terrestrial systems, space electronics must operate reliably for decades without maintenance, making long-term security planning essential. The emergence of quantum computing threatens to render current encryption methods obsolete, whilst hardware Trojans embedded in third-party components pose catastrophic risks.
What makes this particularly alarming? These aren’t theoretical concerns, they’re immediate threats that could compromise national security, disrupt critical infrastructure, and jeopardise essential services that millions depend upon daily.
Bridging the Skills Gap Through Strategic Communication
The University of Portsmouth, working with the Space South Central region, has launched a groundbreaking CPD course: ‘Securing the Future of Space: Space Software and Data/AI’. This UK Space Agency-funded initiative addresses critical skills shortages in space cybersecurity—but only if industry professionals understand its value.
That’s where effective communication becomes crucial. Complex cybersecurity concepts must be translated into actionable insights that resonate with busy professionals and decision-makers.
Championing Critical Research Through Creative Storytelling
As cyber threats to space systems evolve, it’s essential that security research reaches the right audiences with the right impact. Through our work supporting the University of Portsmouth’s communications efforts, Hijack Communications helps ensure that vital cybersecurity insights aren’t just published, they’re understood, acted upon, and drive meaningful industry change.
Conclusion
The security of our space infrastructure isn’t just a technical challenge, it’s a communication challenge. Through our collaboration on this project, Hijack Communications continues to play a vital role in connecting cutting-edge research with industry professionals who can implement real-world solutions.
Read the full article here: Ensuring the security of space applications