Much discussion has been about the United States’ enemies hacking satellites in today’s popular press and movies. Satellites are integral to various services and functionalities, including internet communication, global positioning systems (GPS), weather forecasting, and national security operations. The hacking or disruption of satellites could have severe political, economic and social consequences globally.
The scenario depicted in the movie “Leave The World Behind End” by Director Sam Esmail vividly illustrates the potentially catastrophic consequences of compromised or disabled satellite systems, particularly GPS. Reliance on satellite technology for various critical infrastructures is a growing concern today.
David Ignatius, the Washington Post reporter’s new book “Phantom Orbit,” coming out in May, addresses satellite hacking vulnerabilities. The novel is a thriller that delves into space warfare and espionage. It follows the story of Ivan Volkov, a Russian student in Beijing, who uncovers an unsolved mystery in the writings of 17th-century astronomer Johannes Kepler. This discovery has significant implications for space warfare. Volkov continues his secretive work after returning to Moscow.
The narrative unfolds over several years, marked by personal tragedy and geopolitical upheap, including the loss of Volkov’s son and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Ultimately, Volkov decides to reach out to the CIA with a cryptic message about the dangers posed by satellites and hidden codes that could disrupt time and geographic orientations. This decision puts his life at risk as he becomes a key figure who might prevent a catastrophic event.
The United States has deployed two main types of satellites: geostationary satellites and low earth orbit (LEO) satellites. Each type has distinct characteristics and serves different purposes. The most common satellite deployed by the United States is the LEO.
Geostationary satellites orbit Earth at the same rate that it rotates, allowing them to remain stationary relative to a point on the Earth’s…
