Joining the Space Force: A New Era in Military Service
The United States Space Force (USSF) is the newest branch of the US military, established in December 2019. As the sixth branch of the US Armed Forces, the USSF is responsible for organizing, training, and equipping space forces to protect US interests in space and to deter aggression in the space domain. If you’re interested in joining the Space Force, here are five ways to do so:
1. Enlisted Service
To join the Space Force as an enlisted member, you’ll need to meet the basic qualifications:
- Be a US citizen
- Be between the ages of 17 and 39
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Score well on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test
- Pass a physical fitness test
- Pass a background check
You can enlist in the Space Force through the US Air Force’s enlistment process. Once you’ve enlisted, you’ll attend Basic Military Training (BMT) at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas. After BMT, you’ll attend technical training in a space-related field, such as space systems operations or space cybersecurity.
2. Officer Service
To join the Space Force as an officer, you’ll need to meet the following qualifications:
- Be a US citizen
- Be between the ages of 17 and 35
- Have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Score well on the ASVAB test
- Pass a physical fitness test
- Pass a background check
You can become a Space Force officer through several paths:
- United States Air Force Academy: Attend the US Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and graduate with a commission as a second lieutenant.
- Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC): Attend a university with an ROTC program and graduate with a commission as a second lieutenant.
- Officer Training School (OTS): Attend OTS at Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama and graduate with a commission as a second lieutenant.
- Direct Commission: Apply for a direct commission as a Space Force officer if you have relevant work experience or education in a space-related field.
3. Space Force Civilian Service
If you’re not interested in military service, you can still join the Space Force as a civilian. The USSF employs civilians in a variety of roles, including:
- Administrative and support roles: Work in human resources, finance, or other administrative fields.
- Technical and engineering roles: Work as a scientist, engineer, or technician in a space-related field.
- Acquisition and procurement roles: Work on purchasing and acquiring space systems and equipment.
To apply for a Space Force civilian job, visit the USAJOBS website and search for USSF job openings.
4. Space Force Reserves
The Space Force Reserves offer a way to serve part-time while still pursuing a civilian career. To join the Space Force Reserves, you’ll need to meet the same qualifications as enlisted or officer service.
As a Space Force Reservist, you’ll attend drill weekends and annual training, and you’ll be eligible for benefits such as education assistance and healthcare.
5. Space Force National Guard
The Space Force National Guard offers a way to serve part-time while still pursuing a civilian career. To join the Space Force National Guard, you’ll need to meet the same qualifications as enlisted or officer service.
As a Space Force National Guard member, you’ll attend drill weekends and annual training, and you’ll be eligible for benefits such as education assistance and healthcare.
🚀 Note: The Space Force is still a relatively new branch, and the process for joining may change over time. Be sure to check the official USSF website for the latest information on joining the Space Force.
In conclusion, joining the Space Force offers a unique opportunity to serve in a new and exciting branch of the US military. Whether you’re interested in enlisted or officer service, civilian employment, or part-time service in the Reserves or National Guard, there are several ways to join the Space Force and contribute to the protection of US interests in space.
What is the Space Force?
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The United States Space Force (USSF) is the newest branch of the US military, established in December 2019. The USSF is responsible for organizing, training, and equipping space forces to protect US interests in space and to deter aggression in the space domain.
How do I join the Space Force?
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To join the Space Force, you can enlist as a member of the US Air Force and then transfer to the USSF, or you can apply for a commission as a USSF officer through the US Air Force Academy, ROTC, or OTS. You can also apply for a direct commission or join the Space Force Reserves or National Guard.
What are the qualifications for joining the Space Force?
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The qualifications for joining the Space Force vary depending on whether you’re interested in enlisted or officer service. Generally, you’ll need to be a US citizen, be between the ages of 17 and 39, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and score well on the ASVAB test. You’ll also need to pass a physical fitness test and background check.
