ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) -- The U.S. Space Force debuted its documentary, “Always Above,” during planetarium screenings nationwide on National Space Day, May 2, highlighting the service’s current-day capabilities in space and future efforts.
Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman attended one screening at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, where Saltzman emphasized the Space Force's top priority – delivering combat-ready forces. He highlighted the Guardian Spirit of collaboration as key to winning in space, underscoring the vital importance of controlling the space domain.
The 12-minute film showcases the emerging capabilities of the Space Force, and the various domains the service monitors alongside mission partners. It offers an inspiring and educational experience for all ages who have ever wondered about the mysteries of space in the newest warfighting domain that is protected by Space Force Guardians.
Saltzman kicked off the premiere with a look at the service's evolution since 2019. He stressed partnerships with NASA, Missile Defense Agency and industry as keys for innovation. He also spotlighted the Space Development Agency's impact on acquisition transformation.
Some of the features of the film highlighted the critical role the Space Force plays in safeguarding vital assets such as GPS navigation, military operations and essential satellite infrastructure.
Saltzman explained how Space Force capabilities are vital to the joint force and national security team by providing direct access and information from a global perspective. He added how military space is not new, but that today’s and tomorrow’s dynamic environments require a military service ensuring assured space access.
Reflecting on the importance of the screening, Saltzman clarified the distinction between Space Force and U.S. Space Command. In essence, the Space Force acts as a force provider, meticulously building and refining the space warfighting capabilities that USSPACECOM then employs in its operational role.
Space development, though formally organized under the establishment of the Space Force, represents a decades-long continuum of progress that is poised to extend far into the future.
“Military space operations existed before 2019, the changing nature of the domain necessitated a separate service,” Saltzman said. “The Space Force has evolved from delivering services in a benign environment to controlling a contested domain.”
Find a local screening near you or view this documentary on your own personal VR device to witness these dedicated Guardians in action while also learning how space impacts us all here: https://www.spaceforce.com/news-events/experience/always-above