I'm completely fascinated by space and its exploration. Which branch of the military should I consider if I want to have closer ties to space missions and research?
The branch of the U.S. military that specifically focuses on space and its exploration is the U.S. Space Force. Established in 2019, the Space Force is dedicated to space operations and works to ensure the U.S. can operate in space, while also protecting U.S. interests in this domain.
Activities that the Space Force might include are things like tracking space debris, maintaining satellites, and monitoring ballistic missile launches, making it a solid choice for anyone interested in military involvement with space.
As you consider this path, remember that joining any branch of the military is a significant commitment, and this decision should be made with careful thought and consideration. It can be helpful to speak with a military recruiter or career counselor who can provide more detailed information about what service in the Space Force would look like.
Additionally, just as is the case with colleges and universities, the competitiveness and selectiveness of various military programs can vary, so it is definitely worth exploring what the specific requirements, obligations, and benefits of serving in the Space Force may be.
Lastly, while the Space Force provides an avenue for military involvement in space-related operations, there are also various civilian roles in NASA and other organizations that are directly involved in space exploration and research. Be sure to explore all possible options!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.