Cybersecurity Network Analysis for Spacefaring Nations
Date
2023-04
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Honors Program, The University of Tampa
Abstract
Within the next ten years, satellites in orbit are estimated to increase from 5,500 to over 58,000. The nearly tenfold increase is due to increased
reliance on satellites for providing broadband internet access, collecting information, and combating climate change. Sixty-three countries own
or operate satellites currently in orbit but only ten of those countries possess launch capabilities. Such a concentration of capacity and
resources results in bilateral country relationships and dependence. Cybersecurity is unique as we analyze its role in international relations
because, by nature, bilateral relationships are not exclusive. Almost all commercial satellites broadcast their signals, creating open access to
anyone in the world through radio wave frequencies. Analyzing relational patterns between spacefaring nations provides insight into whether
cybersecurity is a factor in launch dependencies. Do countries capable of launching satellites have better cybersecurity capacity? If so, is
cybersecurity a consideration in international cooperation decisions about where a satellite will be launched? In this paper I use network
analysis to map bilateral satellite owner-launcher relationships. Using data from the International Telecommunication Union’s Global
Cybersecurity Index, I cite countries’ cybersecurity scores in reference to the model. Regression analyses indicate that satellite launching
relationships depend on adequate cybersecurity measures in both the launcher and satellite owner countries. This study offers a way to
analyze flows of influence among states with satellites in orbit through highlighting the importance of cybersecurity. I conclude by proposing
international frameworks for assessing research gaps and other features of relationships in space-based system cybersecurity.
Description
Recommended citation: Marolf, Lauren. “Cybersecurity Network Analysis for Spacefaring Nations.” Honors Program, The University of Tampa, 2023. https://doi.org/10.48497/AH4A-9106.
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Keywords
International Relations, Network Analysis, Satellites, Cybersecurity
Citation
Marolf, Lauren. “Cybersecurity Network Analysis for Spacefaring Nations.” Honors Program, The University of Tampa, 2023. https://doi.org/10.48497/AH4A-9106.