Launched in 2021 as a three-month program in partnership with the newly established US Space Force, the course grew into a year-long graduate certificate in Space Test Engineering by 2024. From January 2026, it will become a full master’s degree, equipping participants with advanced skills in the planning, execution and analysis of complex space test and evaluation missions.
Hague, the first Space Force Guardian to fly to space with NASA, played a central role in advocating for the program’s growth. During his return to Edwards Air Force Base, he spoke with students, airmen, Guardians and their families about the critical role of science, technology, engineering and mathematics in future defence and exploration.
“The strength of the Space Force lies in the dedication and expertise of our airmen and Guardians,” Brig Gen Hague said. “Research in space fundamentally impacts everyone’s lives on Earth.”
He was joined by fellow NASA astronaut and US Navy Captain (Ret’d) Sunita Williams, with both emphasising that test and evaluation principles apply across every domain, from aviation to space.
The program, run with Space Training and Readiness Command and Space Delta 12, now trains up to 24 participants annually to ensure new technologies are “combat-credible and ready for the joint fight”, according to Space Force Deputy Commandant-Space at Test Pilot School, Lieutenant Colonel David Heinz.
While the initiative is American-led, it has clear relevance for Australia. With Defence Space Command standing up in 2022 and the AUKUS partnership increasingly focused on advanced technologies, Canberra is exploring how to build its own cadre of space test specialists. Such expertise would support the development of satellites, surveillance and communications systems crucial to Australia’s defence posture.
As Brig Gen Hague put it: “What happens here at Edwards is extremely impactful to the space mission. The people developing these skills are not only shaping the future of the United States but also strengthening our alliances.”