Curious about the 'Space' branch

Yo! I've heard about this thing called the 'Space' branch in the military. What's up with that? Does anyone here have more info about it? Seems pretty interesting and I might consider that path after high school. Thanks in advance!

Hello there!

The 'Space' branch in the military that you're referencing is actually known as the United States Space Force (USSF). It is the newest branch of the U.S. military, officially established in December 2019. Its primary mission is to keep the U.S secure by maintaining, protecting, and expanding the country's fleet of advanced military satellites. This includes GPS satellites, weather satellites, and satellites that can detect missile launches.

For individuals considering a career in the Space Force, there are diverse pathways available depending upon your interests. The range of careers is vast, spanning from space operations and intelligence to network systems specialists, and even roles in acquisitions or logistics.

Membership in the Space Force starts with a commission as an officer, which can be obtained through different pathways such as the United States Air Force Academy, Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs, Officer Training School (OTS), or direct commissioning.

As with any military commitment, enlisting in the Space Force involves a serious dedication. It often entails several years of active-duty service, though the precise term can vary based on your specific role or training requirements. Prior to joining, you might want to consider speaking with active-duty Space Force members or recruiters to get a better idea of what the commitment entails.

Also, bear in mind that whichever path you choose, the military provides a variety of benefits including tuition assistance and the potential for significant career advancement. It's worth thoroughly researching and considering all the implications before diving into this path.

Just in case you are also considering college, perhaps a degree in something like aerospace engineering, astronomy, or computer science could pair well with a future career in the Space Force. Try to balance your education with your potential career path to make the most out of both.

Hopefully, this information provides a solid grounding into what the Space Force is about and the potential opportunities there. Best of luck as you consider your next steps after high school!