Rethinking risk with electronics for space

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Published: 2026-10-10T10:50:33.554Z • Permanent link

Mike Gruss of SpaceNews recently spoke with Ken Stoler, the space business development lead for Arrow, to discuss the evolution of risk management in spacecraft design and operation. Stoler shared insights on how Arrow and other industry players have shifted their attitudes toward risk, citing the increasing importance of electronics in space missions. According to Stoler, the development of more sophisticated electronics has led to a greater emphasis on reliability, redundancy, and fault tolerance in spacecraft design. This, in turn, has driven a more nuanced understanding of risk and its mitigation strategies.

Stoler pointed to the example of the European Space Agency's (ESA) Gaia mission, which relies on a complex network of electronic systems to navigate and map the galaxy. The mission's success has highlighted the critical role that electronics play in space exploration, and the need for industry players to prioritize risk management and mitigation. Stoler noted that Arrow is working closely with the ESA to develop and integrate advanced electronics into its spacecraft systems, with a focus on improving reliability and reducing the risk of system failures.

The shift in risk management approaches is also being driven by advances in technology, such as the development of more powerful and compact electronics, and the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in spacecraft operations. Stoler highlighted the potential benefits of these technologies, including improved efficiency and reduced costs, but also emphasized the need for industry players to carefully manage the risks associated with their adoption.

The evolving approach to risk management in space exploration has significant implications for the Global Infrastructure domain, with far-reaching consequences for companies, research communities, and markets. One of the key affected companies is SpaceX, which has been at the forefront of the development of advanced electronics for space missions. SpaceX's use of reusable rockets and advanced life support systems has driven innovation in the industry, but also highlights the need for more effective risk management strategies to ensure the reliability and safety of these complex systems.

Research communities, such as those focused on astrobiology and exoplanetary science, are also likely to be impacted by the shift in risk management approaches. These communities rely on precise and reliable data from space missions to inform their research and make predictions about the origins of life in the universe. The increased emphasis on electronics and risk management is likely to lead to improved data quality and reduced errors, which will in turn enable more accurate and reliable research outcomes.

Markets and policy environments are also likely to be affected by the evolving approach to risk management in space exploration. The growth of the space industry is expected to drive investment and innovation, but also highlights the need for effective regulation and risk management strategies to ensure the safety and reliability of space missions. Governments and regulatory bodies, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), are likely to play a critical role in shaping the industry's approach to risk management, and will need to balance the need for innovation and growth with the need for safety and reliability.