CVE-2025-25374 in cFS
Summary
by MITRE • 03/25/2025
In NASA cFS (Core Flight System) Aquila, it is possible to put the onboard software in a state that will prevent the launch of any external application, causing a platform denial of service.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/05/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-25374 resides within NASA's Core Flight System Aquila, a critical software framework designed for space mission operations and onboard spacecraft computing platforms. This flaw represents a significant concern for mission-critical systems where software reliability and operational continuity are paramount. The Core Flight System serves as the foundational software architecture for numerous space missions, making any vulnerability within its components potentially catastrophic for mission success and operational safety.
The technical nature of this vulnerability involves a condition that can place the onboard software into a state where subsequent launch attempts of external applications become impossible. This creates a denial of service scenario that fundamentally disrupts the normal operational flow of the spacecraft's software ecosystem. The flaw likely exists within the application launch or initialization mechanisms of the cFS framework, potentially affecting process management, resource allocation, or system state transitions. Such a vulnerability could be triggered through specific input sequences, configuration parameters, or environmental conditions that cause the system to enter an irrecoverable state.
The operational impact of CVE-2025-25374 extends far beyond simple system unavailability, as it directly threatens mission success and spacecraft functionality. In space environments where communication with ground control is limited and system recovery options are constrained, this vulnerability could result in complete mission failure. The inability to launch external applications means that critical mission tasks, scientific instruments, or operational procedures that depend on these applications cannot execute, potentially leading to data loss, mission delays, or complete system shutdown. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-400, which addresses unspecified errors in resource management, and may also relate to CWE-362, concerning concurrent execution of potentially conflicting operations.
The attack surface for this vulnerability encompasses various operational scenarios including software updates, mission planning phases, or normal operational procedures where external applications are launched. Attackers or system malfunctions could potentially exploit this weakness to cause system-wide denial of service, particularly during critical mission phases such as spacecraft deployment, instrument activation, or data collection periods. The vulnerability's exploitation could occur through malformed application requests, incorrect parameter configurations, or specific timing sequences that trigger the problematic state transition. This scenario falls under ATT&CK technique T1499, which addresses network denial of service attacks, though in this case the attack vector is internal to the spacecraft's software architecture.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-25374 should focus on implementing robust error handling mechanisms, state validation procedures, and fail-safe protocols within the cFS Aquila framework. System architects should consider implementing watchdog timers, automatic recovery procedures, and comprehensive state monitoring to detect and prevent the system from entering the problematic state. Regular software updates, thorough testing of application launch procedures, and implementation of redundant systems are essential protective measures. The vulnerability also necessitates enhanced operational protocols including pre-launch system checks, comprehensive testing of application deployment scenarios, and contingency procedures for system recovery. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and resource management controls can help prevent the conditions that lead to this denial of service state, aligning with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-34 for mission-critical system security.