What is resilience as applied to space systems?

Hopefully the information provided on this site will provide some answers.  But generally speaking resilience when applied to space systems is the property or attribute of continuing to deliver uninterrupted mission capabilities or services in a threat environment. A resilient system will suffer less degradation and shorter outages when confronted by external threats than a less resilient system.

Is resilience only a concern for government or military space systems?

No. There are an increasing number of threats, particularly in space, that apply to all satellites, both government and commercial. Coupled with terrestrial threats, such as cyber threats, both types of operators can benefit from resilient design techniques. To ignore them is to tempt fate.

Aren’t today’s modern space systems pretty resilient?

It depends upon the system, but largely no, particularly to recent and emerging threats. For decades space was considered a safe haven for satellites (especially geosynchronous satellites). Over time it has become apparent that the number and type of threats have been proliferating and system designers have not been tasked to address these new threats. In addition, the acquisition, development, and manufacturing cycles are long for satellites in general and this exacerbates the problem. Thus a new emphasis on designing for resilience must be adopted.

What products or services are being sold at this site?

None. The purpose of the site is to provide some general information to inform the community discussion around the development of future resilient space systems. My book is available at booksellers everywhere, but it’s not the intent of the site to sell books.

Do you represent (or are funded by) any companies or organizations?

No. The intent of this site is to provide as objective a view as possible, with the associated facts and data to support any conclusions. Your mileage may vary. There is no advertising or funding by any external organization for this site.

Do you provide consulting services?

I provide select consulting services, but not through this site. Interested parties, please e-mail me.

Isn’t any of this information classified or sensitive?

Absolutely not. The foundational principles of space resilience have been largely debated in public for over a decade. All material posted, including U.S. Government documents, have been publicly released. In addition, no company proprietary information is included in the site. That includes any IP (graphics, etc.). A substantial amount of material is in the public domain and provides ample grist for the discussion. In addition, some original work is also provided (by me).