Orbiting satellites and other space vehicles are used for communications, weather forecasting, and collecting intelligence data. In the future, more and more military operations will involve space systems. Space operations specialists use and repair spacecraft ground control command equipment, including electronic systems that track spacecraft location and operation.
What They Do
Space operations specialists in the military perform some or all of the following duties:
- Transmit and verify spacecraft commands using aerospace ground equipment
- Monitor computers and telemetry display systems
- Analyze data to determine spacecraft operational status
- Repair ground and spacecraft communication equipment
- Assist in preparing spacecraft commands to meet mission objectives
- Operate data-handling equipment to track spacecraft
Helpful Attributes
Helpful school subjects include physics, geometry, algebra, and trigonometry. Helpful attributes include:
- Ability to work with formulas to solve math problems
- Interest in operating electronic equipment and systems
- Interest in space exploration
- Interest in working as part of a team
Training Provided
Job training consists of classroom instruction, including practice in spacecraft command and control operations. Course content typically includes:
- Operation of electronic transmitting, receiving, and computing equipment
- Analysis of data that indicate spacecraft operational status
- Application of electronic and satellite system principles
- Alignment of ground and spacecraft communication systems
- Space command and control system operational procedures
Work Environment
Space operations specialists work in space operations centers.
Civilian Counterparts
Civilian space operations specialists work for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the U.S. Weather Service, and private satellite communications firms. They perform duties similar to military space operations specialists.
