What Does the U.S. Space Force Actually Do?

The inception of the U.S. Space Force has sparked curiosity and speculation, particularly among veterans who have dedicated their lives to service. While its name suggests futuristic endeavors, many wonder, "what does Space Force do" in reality?

This blog post aims to demystify the U.S. Space Force's purpose, its relevance to national security, and the opportunities it presents for veterans who are familiar with military operations but may not be as versed in the military realms beyond our planet. By exploring the various facets of this new military branch, we hope to provide insights and practical knowledge that resonate with those who have served.

Birth of U.S. Space Force

The U.S. Space Force was officially established on December 20, 2019, marking the first new branch of the armed services since the U.S. Air Force in 1947. This historic step was recognized as necessary to ensure the United States remains ahead in the increasingly competitive domain of space. The establishment responded to the growing recognition of space as a warfighting domain, similar to land, sea, and air.

Since its inception, the Space Force has been tasked with organizing, training, and equipping space forces to protect U.S. and allied interests in space. Its formation represents a significant shift in military strategy, indicating that space is no longer just an ancillary factor but a critical domain central to national security.

The birth of the Space Force also acknowledges the reality that other nations are advancing rapidly in space technology. The Space Force aims to maintain U.S. supremacy by ensuring the nation's safety from space-related threats. But what does Space Force do?

Core Missions of Space Force

At its core, the Space Force is responsible for several key missions that safeguard national and global security. One of its primary tasks performed by Space Force Guardians (what Space Force members are called) is to ensure the protection and sustainability of U.S. space assets. This includes managing and operating military satellites, which provide vital capabilities for communication, navigation, and reconnaissance. There are roughly 8,940 Guardians in the Space Force as of August 2024.

Another fundamental mission is to deter aggression in space by maintaining a visible and credible presence. The Space Force works to prevent potential adversaries from disrupting or destroying U.S. and allied space systems.

Additionally, the Space Force focuses on developing space capabilities that ensure freedom of operation in the space domain. This involves research and development of new technologies, enhancing existing systems, and fostering partnerships with private industry and international allies.

What does Space Force do to Protect Space?

Protecting U.S. space assets is a critical function of the Space Force. These assets include satellites that provide essential services such as GPS, weather monitoring, and secure communications for both military and civilian applications. The Space Force ensures these satellites operate effectively and are shielded from threats like cyberattacks or anti-satellite weapons.

Satellites are pivotal in modern warfare, offering reconnaissance and intelligence that enhance military operations' precision and effectiveness. The Space Force's role in safeguarding these assets directly impacts national security and operational success.

The Space Force also works to minimize space debris, which poses a threat to satellites and other space vehicles. By tracking debris and developing strategies to mitigate its impact, the Space Force contributes to the safety and sustainability of the space environment.

What does Space Force do for Space Superiority?

Ensuring space superiority is a fundamental objective of the Space Force. This involves maintaining the ability to conduct operations in space, sustain space-based services, and deny adversaries' use of space if necessary. Space superiority ensures that the U.S. and its allies have unimpeded access to space, a critical advantage in both peacetime and conflict.

To achieve this, the Space Force invests in advanced technologies that enhance situational awareness, resilience, and defensive capabilities. This includes developing counter-space systems that can protect U.S. assets against hostile actions.

Space superiority also entails a robust commitment to deterrence. By demonstrating the capability and resolve to defend space interests, the Space Force aims to prevent conflicts and maintain stability in the space domain.

What does Space Force do for Space Technology?

The Space Force is at the forefront of advancing space technology and innovation. This involves research and development of new capabilities that enhance national security and extend the boundaries of human activity in space. From developing next-generation satellites to exploring emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum computing, the Space Force is shaping the future of space operations.

Collaboration is a key element of technological advancement. The Space Force partners with private industry, academia, and international allies to leverage expertise and resources. This collaborative approach accelerates innovation and ensures that the U.S. remains a leader in space technology. Innovation within the Space Force extends beyond technology. It includes developing new operational concepts and strategies that adapt to evolving threats and opportunities.

What does Space Force do to Enhance Partnerships?

Global partnerships are a vital component of the Space Force's mission. Collaborating with international allies strengthens collective security and fosters a shared commitment to the responsible use of space. Through joint exercises, information sharing, and cooperative programs, the Space Force enhances interoperability and builds trust with partner nations.

These partnerships extend to organizations like NATO, the European Space Agency, and individual countries with advanced space capabilities. By working together, allies can address common challenges, such as space debris and cyber threats, while promoting stability in the space domain.

The Space Force also engages with the commercial space sector to harness innovation and drive economic growth. By collaborating with industry leaders, the Space Force supports the development of new technologies that benefit both military and civilian applications.

Addressing Misconceptions

What does Space Force do to address misinformation? Despite its growing prominence, the Space Force faces misconceptions and myths that can mislead public perception. One common misconception is that the Space Force operates like science fiction, focusing on space battles and extraterrestrial threats. In reality, the Space Force is grounded in practical, highly technical missions that support national security and technological advancement.

Another myth is that the Space Force duplicates the efforts of existing organizations like NASA. While both entities operate in space, their missions are distinct. NASA focuses on scientific exploration and space exploration, while the Space Force is dedicated to defense and security in the space domain.

Future of the Space Force

The future of the Space Force is characterized by growth, innovation, and adaptation. As the space domain evolves, the Space Force continues to refine its strategies and capabilities to address emerging challenges and opportunities. This forward-looking approach ensures that the U.S. remains a leader in space security and exploration.

The development of new technologies, such as hypersonic vehicles and satellite constellations, will shape the future landscape of space operations. By investing in research and development, the Space Force aims to maintain a technological edge that deters adversaries and strengthens national security.

Conclusion

What does Space Force do? As you’ve read, keeping space safe for the United States to operate is a massive undertaking. The U.S. Space Force is at the forefront of safeguarding national security in the space domain.