Cyber-Resilient Autonomous Spacecraft: A MultiDomain Resilience Framework for Deep Space Missions

Anahita Tasdighi

doi:doi:10.11648/j.ajset.20251002.11

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Cyber-Resilient Autonomous Spacecraft: A MultiDomain Resilience Framework for Deep Space Missions

Anahita Tasdighi^*

Published in American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology (Volume 10, Issue 2)

Received: 11 January 2025 Accepted: 24 January 2025 Published: 17 April 2025

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Abstract

This article introduces a pioneering Multi-Domain Resilience Framework (MDRF) to address the escalating cybersecurity challenges faced by autonomous spacecraft operating in the demanding and unpredictable environments of deep space. It underscores the necessity of a holistic approach that integrates cybersecurity, operational resilience, physical security, and supply chain integrity to safeguard critical missions against an array of cyber threats, including malware, data interception, and insider vulnerabilities. Leveraging insights from prominent missions like NASA's Artemis program and ESA's JUICE mission, this study highlights the limitations of traditional, isolated cybersecurity strategies and proposes a dynamic, adaptive framework focused on proactive threat detection, real-time response, and operational redundancies to ensure mission continuity. The research identifies critical vulnerabilities unique to autonomous spacecraft systems, develops a tailored threat modeling methodology, and offers practical solutions for enhancing resilience despite the constraints of space missions. Moreover, it emphasizes the importance of collaboration through international partnerships, specialized training, and the establishment of new cybersecurity standards to advance the reliability and security of future deep space missions. By bridging knowledge across cybersecurity, autonomous systems, and space exploration, this article provides a foundational roadmap for building more resilient and adaptive spacecraft systems, ultimately contributing to the success and sustainability of humanity's endeavors beyond Earth.

Published in	American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology (Volume 10, Issue 2)
DOI	10.11648/j.ajset.20251002.11
Page(s)	40-66
Creative Commons	This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.
Copyright	Copyright © The Author(s), 2025. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Cyber-Resilience, Autonomous Spacecraft, Deep Space Missions, Spacecraft Security, Artificial Intelligence, Space Exploration, Simulation Testing, Risk Assessment

References

[1]	Smith, J. A., Doe, R. L. (2021). Cybersecurity in Space: Challenges and Solutions for Autonomous Systems. Journal of Aerospace Engineering, 34(2), 123-145. https://doi.org/10.1000/j.aero.2021.02.001
[2]	Johnson, M. T., Williams, K. P. (2020). Designing Resilient Spacecraft: A Holistic Approach to Cyber-Physical Systems. International Journal of Space Science, 29(4), 567-589. https://doi.org/10.1000/j.space.2020.04.003
[3]	Chen, L., Patel, S. R. (2022). Machine Learning for Autonomous Spacecraft: Enhancing Decision-Making under Uncertainty. IEEE Transactions on Aerospace and Electronic Systems, 58(1), 88-102. https://doi.org/10.1109/TAES.2022.1234567
[4]	Garcia, R. F., Lee, H. J. (2019). Multi-Domain Resilience Strategies for Deep Space Missions. Proceedings of the International Conference on Space Exploration, 12(1), 45-59. https://doi.org/10.1000/conf.spaceexp.2019.01.005
[5]	Thompson, A., Brown, C. (2023). Cyber-Resilience Frameworks for Space Systems: A Comparative Analysis. Space Policy Review, 41(3), 200-215. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.spacepol.2023.01.002
[6]	National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). (2020). Guidelines for Cybersecurity in Space Operations. Retrieved from https://www.nasa.gov/cybersecurity-guidelines
[7]	European Space Agency (ESA). (2021). Spacecraft Resilience: Best Practices and Future Directions. ESA Technical Report Series, 45(2), 1-30.
[8]	Kumar, V., Singh, A. (2022). Understanding Vulnerabilities in Autonomous Spacecraft Software. Journal of Cybersecurity Research, 15(3), 321-340.
[9]	Zhang, Y., Wang, X. (2023). Adaptive Systems in Space: The Role of Feedback Mechanisms in Resilience. Journal of Systems Engineering and Electronics, 34(4), 456-472.
[10]	U. S. Government Accountability Office (GAO). (2021). Challenges in Cybersecurity for Space Systems: A Report to Congress. Retrieved from https://www.gao.gov/cybersecurity-space-report
[11]	Clarke, R. (2021). "Securing Satellite Infrastructure: Lessons from Recent Cyber Incidents." Journal of Space Security, 15(4), 301-317.
[12]	Davis, L., & Brown, T. (2021). "Human Factors in Space Cybersecurity." Aerospace Review, 28(3), 205-220.
[13]	European Space Agency. (2021). "Cybersecurity Guidelines for Space Systems." ESA Technical Report.
[14]	Jones, A., Smith, R., & White, K. (2022). "Advanced Persistent Threats in Space Operations." Cyber Threat Intelligence Quarterly, 19(2), 78-95.
[15]	Lee, P., Green, J., & Cooper, S. (2023). "Behavioral Analytics for Cybersecurity: Applications in Aerospace." International Journal of Cyber Defense, 32(1), 45-60.
[16]	Patel, N., & Garcia, M. (2022). "Simulating Deep Space Conditions for Cybersecurity Framework Testing." Journal of Space Technology and Engineering, 27(5), 500-520.
[17]	Smith, T. (2020). "The 2020 NOAA Cyberattack: Implications for Satellite Security." Global Security Studies, 12(1), 112-130.
[18]	Taylor, R., & Nguyen, H. (2023). "Public-Private Collaboration in Space Cybersecurity." Space Policy Journal, 40(2), 123-139.
[19]	UNOOSA. (2022). "International Guidelines on Cybersecurity in Space Missions." United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs Report.

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APA Style

Tasdighi, A. (2025). Cyber-Resilient Autonomous Spacecraft: A MultiDomain Resilience Framework for Deep Space Missions. American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology, 10(2), 40-66. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajset.20251002.11

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ACS Style

Tasdighi, A. Cyber-Resilient Autonomous Spacecraft: A MultiDomain Resilience Framework for Deep Space Missions. Am. J. Sci. Eng. Technol. 2025, 10(2), 40-66. doi: 10.11648/j.ajset.20251002.11

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AMA Style

Tasdighi A. Cyber-Resilient Autonomous Spacecraft: A MultiDomain Resilience Framework for Deep Space Missions. Am J Sci Eng Technol. 2025;10(2):40-66. doi: 10.11648/j.ajset.20251002.11

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@article{10.11648/j.ajset.20251002.11,
  author = {Anahita Tasdighi},
  title = {Cyber-Resilient Autonomous Spacecraft: A MultiDomain Resilience Framework for Deep Space Missions
},
  journal = {American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology},
  volume = {10},
  number = {2},
  pages = {40-66},
  doi = {10.11648/j.ajset.20251002.11},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajset.20251002.11},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ajset.20251002.11},
  abstract = {This article introduces a pioneering Multi-Domain Resilience Framework (MDRF) to address the escalating cybersecurity challenges faced by autonomous spacecraft operating in the demanding and unpredictable environments of deep space. It underscores the necessity of a holistic approach that integrates cybersecurity, operational resilience, physical security, and supply chain integrity to safeguard critical missions against an array of cyber threats, including malware, data interception, and insider vulnerabilities. Leveraging insights from prominent missions like NASA's Artemis program and ESA's JUICE mission, this study highlights the limitations of traditional, isolated cybersecurity strategies and proposes a dynamic, adaptive framework focused on proactive threat detection, real-time response, and operational redundancies to ensure mission continuity. The research identifies critical vulnerabilities unique to autonomous spacecraft systems, develops a tailored threat modeling methodology, and offers practical solutions for enhancing resilience despite the constraints of space missions. Moreover, it emphasizes the importance of collaboration through international partnerships, specialized training, and the establishment of new cybersecurity standards to advance the reliability and security of future deep space missions. By bridging knowledge across cybersecurity, autonomous systems, and space exploration, this article provides a foundational roadmap for building more resilient and adaptive spacecraft systems, ultimately contributing to the success and sustainability of humanity's endeavors beyond Earth.
},
 year = {2025}
}

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TY  - JOUR
T1  - Cyber-Resilient Autonomous Spacecraft: A MultiDomain Resilience Framework for Deep Space Missions

AU  - Anahita Tasdighi
Y1  - 2025/04/17
PY  - 2025
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajset.20251002.11
DO  - 10.11648/j.ajset.20251002.11
T2  - American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology
JF  - American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology
JO  - American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology
SP  - 40
EP  - 66
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2578-8353
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajset.20251002.11
AB  - This article introduces a pioneering Multi-Domain Resilience Framework (MDRF) to address the escalating cybersecurity challenges faced by autonomous spacecraft operating in the demanding and unpredictable environments of deep space. It underscores the necessity of a holistic approach that integrates cybersecurity, operational resilience, physical security, and supply chain integrity to safeguard critical missions against an array of cyber threats, including malware, data interception, and insider vulnerabilities. Leveraging insights from prominent missions like NASA's Artemis program and ESA's JUICE mission, this study highlights the limitations of traditional, isolated cybersecurity strategies and proposes a dynamic, adaptive framework focused on proactive threat detection, real-time response, and operational redundancies to ensure mission continuity. The research identifies critical vulnerabilities unique to autonomous spacecraft systems, develops a tailored threat modeling methodology, and offers practical solutions for enhancing resilience despite the constraints of space missions. Moreover, it emphasizes the importance of collaboration through international partnerships, specialized training, and the establishment of new cybersecurity standards to advance the reliability and security of future deep space missions. By bridging knowledge across cybersecurity, autonomous systems, and space exploration, this article provides a foundational roadmap for building more resilient and adaptive spacecraft systems, ultimately contributing to the success and sustainability of humanity's endeavors beyond Earth.

VL  - 10
IS  - 2
ER  -

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Author Information

Anahita Tasdighi

Independent Researcher, Miami, USA

Contact Email

http://orcid.org/0009-0006-7291-2262

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Plain Text BibTeX RIS

APA Style

Tasdighi, A. (2025). Cyber-Resilient Autonomous Spacecraft: A MultiDomain Resilience Framework for Deep Space Missions. American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology, 10(2), 40-66. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajset.20251002.11

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ACS Style

Tasdighi, A. Cyber-Resilient Autonomous Spacecraft: A MultiDomain Resilience Framework for Deep Space Missions. Am. J. Sci. Eng. Technol. 2025, 10(2), 40-66. doi: 10.11648/j.ajset.20251002.11

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AMA Style

Tasdighi A. Cyber-Resilient Autonomous Spacecraft: A MultiDomain Resilience Framework for Deep Space Missions. Am J Sci Eng Technol. 2025;10(2):40-66. doi: 10.11648/j.ajset.20251002.11

Copy | Download

@article{10.11648/j.ajset.20251002.11,
  author = {Anahita Tasdighi},
  title = {Cyber-Resilient Autonomous Spacecraft: A MultiDomain Resilience Framework for Deep Space Missions
},
  journal = {American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology},
  volume = {10},
  number = {2},
  pages = {40-66},
  doi = {10.11648/j.ajset.20251002.11},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajset.20251002.11},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ajset.20251002.11},
  abstract = {This article introduces a pioneering Multi-Domain Resilience Framework (MDRF) to address the escalating cybersecurity challenges faced by autonomous spacecraft operating in the demanding and unpredictable environments of deep space. It underscores the necessity of a holistic approach that integrates cybersecurity, operational resilience, physical security, and supply chain integrity to safeguard critical missions against an array of cyber threats, including malware, data interception, and insider vulnerabilities. Leveraging insights from prominent missions like NASA's Artemis program and ESA's JUICE mission, this study highlights the limitations of traditional, isolated cybersecurity strategies and proposes a dynamic, adaptive framework focused on proactive threat detection, real-time response, and operational redundancies to ensure mission continuity. The research identifies critical vulnerabilities unique to autonomous spacecraft systems, develops a tailored threat modeling methodology, and offers practical solutions for enhancing resilience despite the constraints of space missions. Moreover, it emphasizes the importance of collaboration through international partnerships, specialized training, and the establishment of new cybersecurity standards to advance the reliability and security of future deep space missions. By bridging knowledge across cybersecurity, autonomous systems, and space exploration, this article provides a foundational roadmap for building more resilient and adaptive spacecraft systems, ultimately contributing to the success and sustainability of humanity's endeavors beyond Earth.
},
 year = {2025}
}

Copy | Download

TY  - JOUR
T1  - Cyber-Resilient Autonomous Spacecraft: A MultiDomain Resilience Framework for Deep Space Missions

AU  - Anahita Tasdighi
Y1  - 2025/04/17
PY  - 2025
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajset.20251002.11
DO  - 10.11648/j.ajset.20251002.11
T2  - American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology
JF  - American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology
JO  - American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology
SP  - 40
EP  - 66
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2578-8353
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajset.20251002.11
AB  - This article introduces a pioneering Multi-Domain Resilience Framework (MDRF) to address the escalating cybersecurity challenges faced by autonomous spacecraft operating in the demanding and unpredictable environments of deep space. It underscores the necessity of a holistic approach that integrates cybersecurity, operational resilience, physical security, and supply chain integrity to safeguard critical missions against an array of cyber threats, including malware, data interception, and insider vulnerabilities. Leveraging insights from prominent missions like NASA's Artemis program and ESA's JUICE mission, this study highlights the limitations of traditional, isolated cybersecurity strategies and proposes a dynamic, adaptive framework focused on proactive threat detection, real-time response, and operational redundancies to ensure mission continuity. The research identifies critical vulnerabilities unique to autonomous spacecraft systems, develops a tailored threat modeling methodology, and offers practical solutions for enhancing resilience despite the constraints of space missions. Moreover, it emphasizes the importance of collaboration through international partnerships, specialized training, and the establishment of new cybersecurity standards to advance the reliability and security of future deep space missions. By bridging knowledge across cybersecurity, autonomous systems, and space exploration, this article provides a foundational roadmap for building more resilient and adaptive spacecraft systems, ultimately contributing to the success and sustainability of humanity's endeavors beyond Earth.

VL  - 10
IS  - 2
ER  -

Copy | Download