In October of 2023, we gathered at the Space ISACs Value of Space Summit, co-hosted by the Aerospace Corporation, which focused on the theme: ‘The Next Giant Leap: Building Cyber Resilience for the Global Space Industry.’ We explored the parallels between past achievements and the current rapid progress in commercial space, signaling our move towards a future where we are no longer earth-bound.
We discovered the urgent need for cyber resilience in the space domain as we recognized cyberspace as the newest warfighter realm. We engaged with experts to develop sustainable and secure space infrastructure, safeguarding against cyber threats. Topics included the threat landscape, securing space assets, situational awareness, resilient satellite communications, policy frameworks, workforce development, and emerging technologies.
The theme of last year’s Space ISACs Value of Space Summit, co-hosted by the Aerospace Corporation, was ‘The Next Giant Leap: Building Cyber Resilience for the Global Space Industry.’ This theme explored the critical importance of cybersecurity in the rapidly advancing commercial space sector. Drawing parallels between the monumental technological advances that propelled humanity to the moon in the late 1960s and the then-current state of the space industry, the conference aimed to shed light on the profound changes being experienced and the urgent need for cyber resilience in the space domain.
Just as the Apollo missions represented a seminal moment in human history, the technological advancements of the time were rapidly propelling society towards a future where space exploration and commerce would become commonplace. The commercial space sector had witnessed unprecedented growth, with private companies launching satellites, developing space tourism ventures, and even setting their sights on establishing colonies on other celestial bodies. Humanity’s relationship with space had forever changed, and it found itself on the cusp of an era where earth-bound limitations might soon become a thing of the past.
As we embarked on this new chapter of space exploration, it was crucial to recognize that the space domain was not immune to the threat of cyberattacks. We had to confront the reality that cyberspace was the newest warfighter realm, where state and non-state actors could exploit vulnerabilities to disrupt or sabotage critical space infrastructure. The consequences of a cyberattack on space systems could be catastrophic, affecting not only national security but also economic stability, public safety, and the continuity of vital services that rely on satellite communications.
To ensure the sustainable development of the space industry, we had to prioritize cyber resilience. Building on the lessons learned from past endeavors, this summit provided a platform for experts, industry leaders, and cybersecurity professionals to share insights, best practices, and innovative solutions to safeguard our space assets. By fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange, we aimed to develop robust cybersecurity frameworks and technologies that would fortify the space domain against emerging threats. At the Space ISAC, we believed it was our collective responsibility to address the urgent need for cyber resilience in the global space industry.
7:30am Pulpit Rock Space Walk
Kick off the Value of Space Summit with this sunrise hike experience. Located directly behind the UCCS Ent Center for the Arts, Pulpit Rock is a very popular area for hiking and convenient for VOSS attendees. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Length: 1.4 mi
Elevation gain: 291 ft
Route type: Loop
Average hike time: 45 mins
Remember to pack accordingly. We recommend that you bring: hiking or tennis shoes, a windbreaker or jacket, a bottle of water, and a camera or cell phone.
Meet in the UCCS Ent Center main parking lot at 7:15am for a group photo before a 7:30am departure.
10:00 AM – Housekeeping & Announcements
Alasyn Zimmerman, Investigative Reporter, KOAA5
UCCS Chancellor Welcome
Dr. Jennifer Sobanet, Interim Chancellor, University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS)
Special Summit Opening and Welcome Remarks
Maj. Gen. (Ret) Kimberly A. Crider, Founding Partner, Elara Nova: The Space Consultancy
Space ISAC Board Representative Comments
Frank Backes, Senior Vice President, Kratos Space Federal
10:30 AM – Government Keynote
Anjana Rajan, Assistant National Cyber Director, The White House Office of the National Cyber Director (ONCD)
10:45 AM – Industry Keynote
Kassandra Vogel, Principal Space Systems Security Architect, Blue Origin
11:00 AM – Space Systems Designation as Critical Infrastructure Sector
Samuel Visner, Fellow, The Aerospace Corporation
11:15 AM – Commercial Protection Before, During and After a Cyber Incident Fireside Chat
11:45 AM – Aerospace SPARTA Updates
Brandon Bailey, Senior Project Leader, Cyber Assessments and Research Department, The Aerospace Corporation
12:05 PM – SPD-5 Presentation
12:25 PM – LUNCH
1:25 PM – Space Environment and Space Weather
2:10 PM – Evolvable Cislunar Space Ecosystem: Sharing Data Across Systems of Systems
3:10 PM – Consortium for Space Mobility and ISAM Capabilities (COSMIC)
Ronald Birk, Principal Director, The Aerospace Corporation
3:30 PM – BREAK
4:00 PM – Charting the Path to Prosperity: Navigating the Future of the Space Economy
4:30 PM – Space ISAC Interview with the Fellows
5:00 PM – Closing Comments & Announcements
Erin Miller, Executive Director, Space ISAC
Cyber Technical Track
Discover the future of space tech on October 18th. Begin with Registration and Coffee, setting the stage for a day of innovation. Our Keynote and Trends Analysis sessions offer insights into space’s cutting edge. Explore Zero Trust Architecture’s impact on space warfare and essential space infrastructure. Dive into supply chain security and critical challenges in space habitats. After lunch, embrace AI’s role in space security, learn about securing cyber-physical systems, and explore CTAaaS. The day concludes with a glimpse into strategic initiatives. Leave with a deep understanding of space cybertech advancements and security.
Workforce Development Track
Passionate about space workforce development? Join us on October 18th. Network, collaborate, and learn. Discover the role of cybersecurity in the workforce, academic collaborations, and commercialization’s impact. Explore academic engagement in space education and innovative workforce development initiatives. Leave with actionable strategies and partnerships to shape the future of space talent. Don’t miss this transformative conversation!
Location: Space ISAC/National Cybersecurity Center (NCC)/Exponential Impact (XI) Training Room, 3650 N Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80907
Workforce Development Track Parking
Enter the parking lot from N Nevada Ave. Enter the building near the NCC sign at the door marked “B Wing”.
Workforce Development Track Registration Instructions
When you arrive at the National Cybersecurity Center/Space ISAC Headquarters, our staff will assist you with the check-in process. Please have your government-issued photo ID, such as a CAC card or driver’s license, ready for verification at the check-in desk. If you attended the summit on Tuesday and received a badge, please bring it with you. If this is your first check-in on Wednesday, we will provide you with a badge at that time. All conference attendees will be requires to prominently display their badge above their waist during the summit.
8:00 AM – Networking Breakfast
8:30 AM – The Data Mine: Engaging Interdisciplinary Student Learners at Scale
Dr. Mark Ward, Professor of Statistics and (by courtesy) Mathematics, Purdue University
9:15 AM – USSPACECOM – Workforce Development
Dr. Michael Madsen, Chief of the Education Branch, USSPACECOM J73 (Training & Education),
9:45 AM – NSF Engine Update
10:15 AM – Thrive DX
Scott Cathcart, Vice President, Strategic Partnerships, ThriveDX
10:30 AM – Spacely
Tom Cooke, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Spacely
10:45 AM – BREAK
11:00 AM – Space ISAC Workforce Community of Interest Next Steps Workshop
Location: University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) Kettle Creek, 4785 Clyde Way, Colorado Springs, CO 80918
Cyber Technical Track
8:30 AM – Registration & Coffee
9:00 AM – Track Introduction and Welcome Remarks
Ian Grahek, Marketing Manager, Space ISAC
9:10 AM – Technical Track Keynote
Robert Metzger, Head of Washington Office, Rogers Joseph O’Donnell
9:25 AM – Watch Center 2023 Trends Analysis and Presentation
Joel Francis, Watch Center Lead, Space ISAC
9:55 AM – Impact of Zero Trust Architecture on Space Warfare
Altif Brown, Co-Founder, Constellation Network
10:25 AM – BREAK
10:40 AM – Space Systems Critical Infrastructure Discussion
11:10 AM – Fortifying Space: Building Cyber Resilience with Smart Design Principles
Irby Thompson, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), OP[4]
11:40 AM – Supply Chain Risk Management Survey, Space ISAC SCRM COI
Megan Moloney, Associate Director, Defense and Security Segment, Guidehouse
12:10 PM – Critical Challenges to Protecting Human Habitats on Orbit, on The Moon, and Beyond
12:30 PM – LUNCH
Conference Lunch Options for Attendees
During the conference, we will ensure that you are fueled and energized with coffee and snacks available throughout the track sessions. However, please note that lunch arrangements are the responsibility of each attendee. To make your lunch selection easier, we offer two convenient options:
Payment Methods: Cash or Card accepted at the dining hall.
Price: $10.50 at the door.
Enjoy the flexibility of exploring a variety of restaurants and eateries, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences.
1:55 PM – Space ISAC AI/ML COI “Machine Learning Security Operations – MLSecOps”
2:30 PM – Carnegie Mellon Sei Research on Securing Cyber-physical Systems in Space
Dionisio de Niz, Technical Director Assuring Cyber Physical Systems Directorate, Carnegie Mellon University
3:00 PM – Cyber Threat Analysis as-a Service (CTAaaS)
William D. Belei, The Aerospace Corporation
3:30 PM – BREAK
3:45 PM – Space ISAC Cislunar Affinity Group
Gabrielle Hedrick, Ph.D, Aerospace Engineer, The MITRE Corporation
4:25 PM – Strategic Earthshot Initiative
Robert Katz, Founder, CEO, NGO, World Innovation Network
4:45 PM – Wrap-up & Closing Remarks
7:00 PM – Kratos Networking Reception and ExoAnalytic Star Party at Space ISAC Headquarters
Join us for a fantastic opportunity to network and socialize with fellow members of the cyber for space community during an enjoyable evening of drinks, courtesy of our generous sponsor, Kratos. This relaxed atmosphere provides a valuable platform to foster meaningful connections, share insights, and collaborate on cutting-edge ideas in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity for space. Don’t miss this chance to engage with industry peers, exchange experiences, and strengthen our collective efforts in safeguarding the cyber frontier of space exploration.
The Value of Space Summit Star Party, sponsored by ExoAnalytic, is made possible with the help of the Colorado Springs Astronomical Society (CSASTRO), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization of astronomy enthusiasts dedicated to the promotion and advancement of astronomy throughout Southern Colorado.
The star party typically features a range of engaging activities, including:
Telescope Viewing: CSASTRO members bring their telescopes and invite attendees to take a closer look at various celestial objects. They provide explanations and answer questions about what can be observed, such as planets, star clusters, nebulae, galaxies, and the moon.
Guided Tours: Knowledgeable CSASTRO volunteers lead guided tours of the night sky, pointing out different constellations, stars, and other interesting features. They share fascinating facts and stories about the objects visible that night, making the experience both educational and entertaining.
Astrophotography Tips: Many enthusiasts are interested in capturing stunning images of the night sky. CSASTRO provides astrophotography tips and guidance, explaining how to set up cameras, adjust settings, and capture beautiful images of celestial objects. They may also showcase examples of astrophotography work to inspire and educate participants.
Throughout the event, CSASTRO members are available to answer questions, share their knowledge, and offer advice to ensure everyone has a rewarding experience. They foster a warm and inclusive environment, encouraging interaction and building a sense of community among astronomy enthusiasts.
Attendees are encouraged to bring your own telescopes or night vision binoculars!
This exclusive showcase will serve as a hub for small businesses from various sectors within the space and cyber industries, facilitating meaningful interactions and the exchange of groundbreaking ideas. It presents a unique chance for these enterprising ventures to forge valuable partnerships, explore potential collaborations, and cultivate a network of like-minded professionals who share a common vision for progress and innovation.
At the Small Business Showcase Event, attendees will have the privilege of discovering critical resources tailored specifically to meet the needs of small businesses. Whether it’s guidance on funding opportunities, access to cutting-edge technologies, or mentorship from seasoned industry experts, the event promises a wealth of invaluable resources to fuel the growth and success of aspiring entrepreneurs.
9:00 AM – Exponential Impact (XI) Small Business Day Networking Breakfast
9:45 AM – Track Introduction and Welcome Remarks
10:00 AM – Business Development Panel
11:00 AM – Open Showcase
Classified Sessions
Sessions will be held at the TS/SCI level during the Value of Space Summit. When purchasing a ticket on Eventbrite, there is an opportunity to indicate that you are interested in more information to attend these sessions. If you are still waiting for more information on classified sessions, please contact [email protected].
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