The honorable Dr. Mark Esper, Secretary of Defense, visits Schriever Air Force Base, Colorado, Aug. 20, 2020. Esper visited the National Space Defense Center as part of his visit for the NORAD/NORTHCOM and USSPACECOM changes of command. U.S. Space Command’s Joint Task Force - Space Defense executes it’s protect and defend mission through various operations centers, including the NSDC. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Jonathan Whitely)

The honorable Dr. Mark Esper, Secretary of Defense, visits the National Space Defense Center Aug. 20, 2020, at Schriever Air Force Base, Colorado. While visiting the NSDC operations floor, Esper learned about the unit’s mission and coined Airmen for outstanding performance. U.S. Space Command’s Joint Task Force - Space Defense executes it’s protect and defend mission through various operations centers, including the NSDC. (U.S. Air Force photo by Kathryn Damon)

The honorable Dr. Mark Esper, Secretary of Defense, visits Schriever Air Force Base, Colorado, Aug. 20, 2020. During his visit, Esper toured the National Space Defense Center and the 1st Space Operations Squadron. U.S. Space Command’s Joint Task Force - Space Defense executes it’s protect and defend mission through various operations centers, including the NSDC. (U.S. Air Force photo by Kathryn Damon)