Yo, this might sound a bit weird, but I am really into outer space and thinking about how that could play into my future career. I know the Air Force deals some with space, but is there another specific branch of the U.S. military that would be involved more with space-related stuff?
Yes, there is! As of 2019, the United States established a sixth branch of the military called the United States Space Force. This branch is specifically designated to protect U.S. and allied interests in space.
The Space Force oversees operations such as monitoring ballistic missile launches, tracking space debris, and maintaining satellites to facilitate communication across the other branches of the military. Put simply, its primary role is to ensure the security and strategic superiority of the U.S. in the space environment. As interest and activity in space grows in the 21st century, the Space Force will play an increasingly integral role in the country's defense strategy.
As you're interested in space, this could be a great route for your future career. As with any other branch of the military, you'll likely need to go through a physical, and potentially mental, examination process, along with various educational and/or training requirements. If you're already thinking about college, some universities offer Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs where you might be able to specialize in Space Force-related training.
Remember, it's crucial to do extensive research and consider talking to a military recruiter for more detailed information about the enlistment process and career opportunities within the U.S. Space Force.
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