Cyberattacks Disrupt Leading Astronomical Observatories
Several renowned astronomical observatories have experienced cyberattacks that forced temporary shutdowns of their operations. The National Optical-Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory (NOIRLab), funded by the National Science Foundation, reported a cybersecurity incident on August 1, resulting in the temporary suspension of activities at its Gemini North Telescope in Hawaii and Gemini South Telescope in Chile. Smaller telescopes located on Cerro Tololo in Chile were also impacted.
Investigation Ongoing
NOIRLab has initiated an investigation into the nature and origins of these cyberattacks, but as of now, it remains unclear what specifically prompted these incidents or who was behind them. Due to the ongoing investigation, NOIRLab has exercised caution in disclosing detailed information about the intrusions. However, the organization remains committed to transparency and safeguarding its infrastructure.
“We plan to provide the community with more information when we are able to, in alignment with our commitment to transparency as well as our dedication to the security of our infrastructure,” noted NOIRLab in an update.
Cybersecurity Concerns in the Space Industry
These cyberattacks on NOIRLab’s facilities occurred shortly after the United States National Counterintelligence and Security Center (NCSC) issued a bulletin advising American space companies and research organizations about the threat of cyberattacks and espionage. The bulletin emphasized that foreign entities recognize the significance of the commercial space industry to the U.S. economy and national security. The bulletin mentioned that these entities view U.S. space-related innovation and assets as both potential threats and valuable opportunities to acquire essential technologies and expertise.
Not the First Incident
This isn’t the first time that astronomical observatories have fallen victim to cyberattacks. In October 2022, hackers disrupted operations at the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile, and NASA has encountered cyberattacks over the years. In 2021, NASA was affected by the global SolarWinds breach, which NASA leadership described as a “big wakeup call” for cybersecurity.
