[1][8][9] The Air Force Space and Missile Badge was presented in three grades being that of basic, senior, and master.

The basic badge was awarded for completion of initial space training while the senior and master badges were awarded based on years of service in Air Force Space assignments; for officer the steps occur at seven and fifteen years respectively.

The grades of the Air Force Space and Missile badge were denoted by a star (senior) and wreath (master) centered above the decoration.

The Space Operations Badge was then restricted to Air Force Specialty Codes 13S and 1C6, but can be earned by non-operations personnel after meeting certain criteria.

To receive the Senior Space Operations Badge, members must complete seven years of operations-focused duties and get AFSPC vice commander approval.

The symmetric placement of the satellites signifies the Air Force's worldwide coverage in accomplishing its mission.