Space Science Minor

Space Science Minor

Space Science

Minor

The Space Science minor focuses on the technology of spacecraft, satellites, and space exploration. Modern life has increasingly benefited from the knowledge of the space environment, utilization of satellites and spacecraft, and the application of space-based technologies.

Offered by the Department of Physics and Nuclear Engineering.

If you are love science, space, and technology, are interested in rockets, satellites, or space defense systems, and want  to support Army space operations or work in missile defense or satellite systems, the Space Science minor at the United States Military Academy at West Point can help you lead in a high-tech, fast-growing domain.

What is the Space Science Minor?

Space science explores the science and technology behind how we operate in space. It's designed for cadets who are fascinated by space, satellites, orbits, rockets, and the environment beyond Earth’s atmosphere - and want to understand how all of that supports modern military missions.

This minor combines physics, astronomy, and engineering, with a focus on Army-relevant space systems like GPS, missile warning, satellite communications, and space surveillance. It provides cadets with a solid foundation in orbital mechanics, the space environment, attitude determination and control, satellite communications, space structures, astronomy, astrophysics, space physics, remote sensing, and rocket propulsion.  

Cadets from a large number of majors learn about space-related topics and how those topics align with their respective major.

Why Consider Space Science Minor at USMA?

  • Space is Critical to the Army
    The Army depends on space-based systems for navigation (GPS), communication, targeting, intelligence, and more. This minor helps cadets understand and lead in those mission areas.
  • Learn the Science of Space
    Cadets explore how gravity, orbits, radiation, and rocket propulsion work - and how to apply that knowledge to Army systems.
  • Hands-On Experience
    Some cadets use real satellite tracking stations, build sensor payloads, or analyze space data. They are not just learning about space - they're  working with it.
  • Pairs Well with Many Majors
    Whether cadets are studying Physics, Engineering, Cyber, or Systems, the Space Science minor adds depth and opens doors to technical and leadership roles in space-focused units.
  • Get Ready for Future Space Roles
    This minor prepares cadets for possible careers in Army Space and Missile Defense Command, Space Operations, or even graduate programs in astronautical or aerospace engineering.

What To Do With This Minor?

With the U.S. military expanding its focus on space, this minor prepares graduates for future-focused careers in:

  • Army Space Operations
  • Cyber or Air Defense Artillery
  • Aviation or Intelligence
  • Graduate Study in Space Science or Aerospace Engineering

Graduates bring technical expertise to missions involving satellites, missile defense, GPS systems, and more.

Interested Cadets

Do you look up at the night sky and wonder what’s out there? Are you curious about how satellites work, how rockets launch, or how space affects national security? If so, the Space Science minor at West Point lets you explore the universe - while preparing you to lead in one of the Army’s most high-tech and fast-growing domains. It adds a space-focused edge to your education, combining physics, astronomy, and atmospheric science with real-world military applications.

Why Consider This Minor

  • Space is Critical to the Army – From GPS to missile warning systems, space-based tech plays a huge role in modern warfare.
  • STEM + Strategy – Learn how science meets national defense in space operations.
  • Hands-On Learning – Launch weather balloons, work with satellite tracking tools, and even build small-scale experiments.
  • Flexible Pairing – Perfect for cadets majoring in Physics, Engineering, Cyber, or Computer Science who want to add a space twist.

The Space Science minor is a launchpad to a future that’s bigger than Earth. Whether cadets are tracking satellites, analyzing orbits, or helping the Army defend from above, this program helps them reach new heights - literally.

What Cadets Learn

The minor gives cadets a solid understanding of how space works - both scientifically and tactically. Topics include:

  • Orbital Mechanics – How satellites move and stay in orbit
  • Space Environment – Learn about radiation, charged particles, and solar activity that affect military systems
  • Astronomy & Astrophysics – Explore the structure of the universe and celestial bodies
  • Remote Sensing & Space Weather – Understand how space-based sensors collect critical info for the Army

Choice of Electives

Cadets can shape their minor with exciting electives like:

  • Rocket Propulsion – Learn how engines launch rockets into space
  • Space Physics – Study how electromagnetic forces and plasma behave in space
  • Astrophysics – Explore black holes, neutron stars, and galaxies
  • Space Weather – Understand how solar storms impact satellites and communications
  • Satellite Tracking and Control – Learn how to monitor and manage space systems

Learn More

  • View the full Space Science minor curriculum
  • Meet the Space Science minor faculty

Opportunities are available to perform research at Department of Defense and laboratories that conduct space and missile defense-related research during the summer.

To learn more about enrichment for this area of study, visit the Department of Physics and Nuclear Engineering, the Photonics Research Center or the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command Space and High-Altitude Research Center.