Intro
Ready to blast off into a new career? Learn how to join the US Space Force with our comprehensive, step-by-step guide. Discover the requirements, benefits, and career paths in the newest branch of the military, from Space Operations to Cybersecurity and more. Launch your future in the US Space Force today!
The United States Space Force (USSF) is the newest branch of the US military, established in 2020 to protect American interests in space and to deter aggression in the space domain. Joining the USSF can be a unique and rewarding career path for those interested in space, technology, and service to their country.
Why Join the US Space Force?
The USSF offers a range of benefits, including competitive pay and benefits, opportunities for advancement and education, and the chance to be part of a historic and innovative new branch of the military. Members of the USSF will have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology, including satellites, spacecraft, and other space-related systems.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
To join the USSF, you must meet certain basic requirements, including:
- Being a US citizen
- Being between the ages of 17 and 39 (with some exceptions for older candidates)
- Meeting certain physical and medical standards
- Scoring well on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test
- Having a high school diploma or equivalent
Education and Training
The USSF requires a strong foundation in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) subjects. Candidates should have a solid understanding of physics, mathematics, and computer science.
Step 2: Choose Your Career Path
The USSF offers a range of career paths, including:
- Space Operations: Members of the USSF will work on the operation and maintenance of space systems, including satellites and spacecraft.
- Space Systems Acquisition: USSF members will work on the development and acquisition of new space systems and technologies.
- Cybersecurity: Members of the USSF will work to protect USSF systems and networks from cyber threats.
- Intelligence: USSF members will work to gather and analyze intelligence on space-related threats and activities.
Enlisted vs. Officer
Candidates can choose to enlist as a Space Force Specialist or to become an officer through the US Air Force Academy or ROTC programs. Enlisted members will work in a variety of roles, including maintenance, operations, and cybersecurity. Officers will lead and manage teams of enlisted members and will be responsible for making strategic decisions.
Step 3: Apply and Take the ASVAB
To apply to the USSF, candidates must submit an application and take the ASVAB test. The ASVAB test measures aptitude in a range of subjects, including mathematics, science, and language. Candidates who score well on the ASVAB test will be eligible to move on to the next step in the application process.
Preparing for the ASVAB
Candidates can prepare for the ASVAB test by studying for the test and practicing with sample questions. The USSF also offers a range of resources to help candidates prepare, including study guides and online practice tests.
Step 4: Complete Basic Training
Once candidates have completed the application and testing process, they will be invited to attend Basic Military Training (BMT) at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas. BMT is a 7-week course that teaches new recruits the skills and values they need to succeed in the USSF.
What to Expect in BMT
BMT is a challenging and intense program that pushes new recruits to their limits. Recruits will learn about USSF history, core values, and protocols, as well as physical fitness and combat skills.
Step 5: Attend Technical Training
After completing BMT, new USSF members will attend technical training, where they will learn the skills and knowledge they need to perform their specific job. Technical training can last from a few weeks to several months, depending on the job.
Types of Technical Training
The USSF offers a range of technical training programs, including:
- Space Systems Operations
- Cybersecurity
- Intelligence
- Maintenance and Repair
Step 6: Begin Your Career in the USSF
Once new USSF members have completed technical training, they will begin their careers in the USSF. They will work on a range of tasks and projects, from operating and maintaining space systems to gathering and analyzing intelligence.
Advancement Opportunities
The USSF offers a range of advancement opportunities, including promotions, education and training programs, and special duty assignments.
Gallery of US Space Force Images
US Space Force Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the US Space Force?
+The US Space Force is the newest branch of the US military, established in 2020 to protect American interests in space and to deter aggression in the space domain.
How do I join the US Space Force?
+To join the US Space Force, candidates must meet certain basic requirements, including being a US citizen, meeting certain physical and medical standards, and scoring well on the ASVAB test. Candidates can then apply to the US Space Force and attend Basic Military Training and technical training.
What careers are available in the US Space Force?
+The US Space Force offers a range of careers, including space operations, cybersecurity, intelligence, and maintenance and repair.
What is Basic Military Training like?
+Basic Military Training is a 7-week course that teaches new recruits the skills and values they need to succeed in the US Space Force. It is a challenging and intense program that pushes new recruits to their limits.
What is technical training like?
+Technical training is a program that teaches new US Space Force members the skills and knowledge they need to perform their specific job. It can last from a few weeks to several months, depending on the job.
Joining the US Space Force can be a unique and rewarding career path for those interested in space, technology, and service to their country. By following the steps outlined above, candidates can begin their journey to becoming a member of the US Space Force.