The scientists’ target was OPS-SAT, a small satellite belonging to the European Space Agency (ESA). They not only bypassed the satellite’s defense systems, but also took control of it.
The hackers gained access to the global positioning system, attitude control system and onboard OPS-SAT camera. But they did not interfere with the operation of the device and did not change its trajectory.
According to Thales experts, they were able to hack the satellite using standard access rights to enter the control interface. This allowed full control over the hardware and the ability to install malicious code in its software.
Thales Vice President Pierre-Yves Jolivet stressed that the space industry must pay attention to cybersecurity at all stages of satellite development and operation. This will help prevent similar incidents in the future.
Source: Ferra
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