As governments and the private sector develop new technologies for space, the threat of cyber attacks continues to increase

Over the years, government-run space programs have put humans on the moon.

Animals in space, and had a constant human presence living in orbit since 2000.

But as private projects like Blue Origin and SpaceX take the skies, space feels closer than ever before.

But with technology and software making these projects possible, they’re fast becoming a target for cyber hackers.

Both the private and public space sectors are taking a closer look at cybersecurity concerns that are out of this world.

When satellites are in space, they transmit sensitive data to and from earth.

This makes them a potential target for hackers or malicious actors.

In 2019, cyber security incidents at NASA rose to nearly 1,500—an increase of 366% from 315 the year prior.

It comes as the space agency’s cybersecurity budget declined by $3.1 million over the same period.

Peter Coroneos is an internationally recognised voice on cyber policy.

The U.K. Government is already taking action to curb cyber threats in space.

It plans to link civil and military space ventures to combat emerging threats.

Meanwhile, the White House has also put cyber in space firmly on its radar.

The U.S.’ top cyber strategy invests in resilience and defence for future attacks.

As new projects take to the skies, governments and the private sector alike are fastening their seatbelts for what could be a bumpy ride.