Hey, so I've been exploring different paths after high school and the military came up. And I can't help but wonder, with all the technological progression these days, is there a space branch of the military? Is that a thing yet or am I getting ahead of myself here?
Absolutely, there is! The United States created its sixth branch of the military, known as the Space Force, in December 2019. This branch is tasked with organizing, training, and equipping personnel to protect U.S. and allied interests in space.
Their duties can be quite broad and significant. For instance, they monitor potential threats such as ballistic missile launches, keep track of space debris that could pose potential hazards to satellites and spacecraft, and work to maintain the necessary communication satellites for other military branches.
So, if you're interested in a military career and have a passion for space, this could potentially be an exciting path for you. It marries together aspects of international security, technological advancement, and astronomy into a unique career. One thing to note, though, is that as per current guidelines, Space Force personnel are not astronauts. While their work supports space endeavors, they don't actually go to space themselves.
However, it's always good to research thoroughly and consult with an advisor or counsellor before making a final decision. All the best with your post-high school plans!
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