A Career in Space Operations

Answer 1

Outer space provides the world with literally endless possibilities, whether it be in communication techniques, weather forecasting, national security, or space exploration. These activities require the implementation of special space equipment, which must be managed, utilized, and cared for by specialists trained to deal with the unique conditions that outer space presents. Space operations officers adeptly manage outer space affairs and equipment.

Space operations officers manage a spacecraft’s launching, flight, recovery, and landing. Some space operations officers are astronauts who command an outer space flight, or possibly serve as a crew member. They oversee the spacecraft’s navigation and care for its propulsion and steerage systems. It is also imperative that space operations officers keep close tabs on the movement and activities of foreign spacecraft. During the spacecraft’s orbit, the space operations officer must perform experiments designed to test the limits of outer space’s possibilities, whether the officer conducts these experiments from a control station on Earth or hands-on as an astronaut. Most space operations officers work for the military, although some civilian officers are also involved with the launching of spacecraft and control of spacecraft navigation. These officers oftentimes monitor and maintain private companies’ space satellites.

Because they are constantly working with other officers and space engineers, space operations officers must work well in teams and have excellent people skills. These officers should have a talent for math and scientific research. To become a space operations officer, one must have at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering, science, or math. Completion of an extensive training program is also required, including additional classroom instruction, hands-on job experience, and a special NASA astronaut candidate training school segment. The starting salary for a space operations officer is about $68,000 per year, with more experienced officers earning up to $94,000 annually.

The mysteries of outer space can only be explored by trained professionals who are backed by skilled workers that control the spacecraft and equipment. Space operations officers have the unique opportunity to experience the wonders of outer space both behind-the-scenes as a flight supervisor and hands-on as an astronaut. These officers boast one of the most exciting careers available to mankind.