The Space Force has been busy with a mix of operational missions, technological advancements, and organizational developments. One notable recent event was the return of its secretive X-37B spaceplane on March 7, 2025, after a 434-day mission in orbit. This unmanned craft, launched in December 2023 aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy, landed at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. During its mission, it tested a groundbreaking aerobraking maneuver—using Earth’s atmosphere to adjust its orbit with minimal fuel—while also conducting space domain awareness experiments and carrying classified payloads. This reflects the Space Force’s focus on pushing innovative space operations and enhancing its understanding of the space environment.
Beyond that, the Space Force is working on integrating commercial capabilities into its operations. For instance, it’s exploring the use of commercial satellites and sensors for space domain awareness, particularly in geosynchronous orbit (about 22,000 miles above Earth). This effort aims to build a more resilient, cost-effective network to track objects and activities in space, a priority as space becomes increasingly contested.
Recruitment is another area of activity. The Space Force is setting up its own dedicated recruiting squadron, training "Guardian recruiters" to attract new talent. This move signals an intent to grow its ranks and establish a stronger public identity, separate from its reliance on the Air Force.
Posts on X from the official Space Force account also highlight recent leadership discussions at events like #AFAColorado, where senior leaders emphasized readiness, unified intelligence to counter threats, and adapting to new challenges in space operations. They’re also investing in command and control systems for missile warning and tracking, showing a focus on bolstering national defense capabilities.
In short, the Space Force is juggling cutting-edge missions, expanding its technological edge, and building its workforce—all while keeping a lot of its work under wraps.
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