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Completed TRL 6 (started at 3, targeting 6)
This effort would provide a software-only solution using the latest CCSDS (Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems) Space Data Link Security Protocol – Extended Procedures (SDLS-EP) to secure communications between a spacecraft running the core Flight System (cFS) and a ground station. A software-only solution is desired to enable missions designed without security to trade processing power for compliance with the latest NASA recommendations for space mission security. Leveraging the standard Command Ingest (CI) and Telemetry Output (TO) applications in cFS and the Cryptography Library (CryptoLib) enables re-use across multiple missions including the latest NASA GSFC SmallSats which have been exploring this technology for flight.
Recent announcements and memorandums from headquarters suggest that space mission security will be a requirement in the near term for all missions. Investment in this IRAD enables the application of security to the current and future SmallSat missions and all missions using cFS. This is particularly important because as space becomes commercialized the need for an accepted standard that provides security features and protects against various forms of attack at a low cost is growing.
Spacecraft are continuing to evolve and perform a vast number of operations ranging from military use to scientific endeavors and are prime candidates for attack that need protection. As Small Spacecraft become more capable, they also increase the risks posed to others and should be protected. Efforts in space mission security must be made before an incident occurs.
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This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.
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