Why We Need Space

There’s no such thing as a day without space. GPS, cell phones, internet, computer networks, banks, hospitals, airports, electric power grids – even entire cities – all rely on space-based technology and our Nation’s freedom to operate in space.

COMMUNICATION
NAVIGATION
INNOVATION AND SCIENCE
NATIONAL DEFENSE

Have you ever used the WIFI while flying on a commercial aircraft? Or perhaps you subscribe to or use satellite radio or TV for constant connection. Every day space is making it easier to connect with friends and family, conduct business, dial 911 in an emergency, and connect to the internet in under-developed or rural areas.

Did you know that more than 93% of American drivers are dependent on GPS to navigate? GPS satellites are operated by the Space Force and instantly triangulate position to give users their pinpoint location anywhere on Earth. This technology has gone on to underpin entire industries including transportation, finance, security, safety, and much more. Without GPS, ATM transactions, self-driving cars, automated agricultural equipment, and many ocean-based operations would come to a screeching halt.

Many of the products and tools we use routinely find their origins in space. A few examples are cell phone cameras, solar panels, memory foam, cordless vacuums and power tools, global food safety standards, grooved roadways to reduce accidents, wireless headphones, air purifiers, baby formula, laptops, and much more.

The modern U.S. military is built around the assumption that space power will be there when needed. Military forces on land, in the air, and at sea rely on space capabilities to include global communication, command and control, navigation, precision targeting, missile defense, and persistent battlespace awareness.

Space Force Guardians work every day to keep the space domain safe and accessible to ensure that our military and the American people never have to experience a day without space.

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Why We Need Space

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