The Space Cyber Range (SCR) is a European initiative led by Spaceit under the European Space Agency’s 4S programme (Space Systems for Safety and Security). Its goal is to create a realistic training and testing environment for space cybersecurity, a place where operators, engineers, and cybersecurity specialists can develop and validate secure satellite operations.
Purpose
The Space Cyber Range provides a realistic environment for testing of space systems and training operators, engineers and cyber security experts. Using Spaceit’s Mission Control System (MCS), it replicates real mission conditions, from routine operations to cyberattack scenarios, across both space and ground segments, recognising that the ground infrastructure is often the most exposed to vulnerabilities. This integrated approach strengthens the overall security and resilience of satellite missions.
Consortium Partners
This project is developed in cooperation with:
Prime Contractor: Spaceit
Subcontractors: CybExer Technologies,CGI Eesti, CR14, University of Tartu
Together, these partners combine expertise in mission control, cybersecurity, infrastructure and research to advance Europe’s capabilities in secure space operations.
Applications
The Space Cyber Range will serve as a shared European environment for:
- Training: hands-on exercises for space operators, engineers, agencies, and cybersecurity teams to strengthen operational resilience.
- Technology Testing: safe and controlled validation of new systems, protocols and defence mechanisms under realistic mission conditions.
- Knowledge Sharing: building stronger links between the industry, government, and research communities to advance cybersecurity expertise across the
European space sector.
Status and Outlook
The project officially kicked off in February 2025 and is currently under development within ESA’s ARTES 4S programme. Once operational, the Space Cyber Range will be hosted at CR14 in Estonia and will provide one of the first integrated environments in Europe for space cybersecurity simulation, testing, training and validation.
