Space Exploration Merit Badge

Space Exploration and the Trail to Eagle

Space Exploration is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.

Space Exploration Merit Badge Requirements

Summary of the 8 main requirements for Space Exploration. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.

1
Tell the purpose of space exploration and include the following: historical reasons, immediate goals, benefits related to Earth resources, and international relations and cooperation.
2
Design a collector's card about your favorite space pioneer.
3
Build, launch, and recover a model rocket. Make a second launch to accomplish a specific objective.
4
Discuss and demonstrate each of the following: the law of action-reaction, how rocket engines work, how satellites stay in orbit, and how satellite pictures are made and transmitted.
5
Do TWO of the following: discuss a robotic and a crewed space exploration mission, create a blog or scrapbook about a current planetary mission, or design a robotic mission.
6
Describe the purpose, operation, and components of ONE of the following: Space shuttle or other crewed orbital vehicle, or International Space Station.
7
Design an inhabited base located within our solar system.
8
Discuss with your counselor two possible careers in space exploration.

Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.

How to Earn the Space Exploration Merit Badge

1. Get a blue card and a counselor

Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Space Exploration, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.

2. Plan around the setting

Space Exploration is usually earned on your own with a counselor. Schedule regular check-ins with your counselor so partial progress does not stall.

3. Budget the time

Expect about a month for a moderate badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.

4. Track every requirement

Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 8 Space Exploration requirements for you.

Space Exploration Merit Badge FAQ

Is the Space Exploration merit badge required for Eagle Scout?

No. Space Exploration is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.

How long does the Space Exploration merit badge take?

Most scouts finish Space Exploration in about a month, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.

Where do scouts usually earn the Space Exploration merit badge?

Space Exploration is most often earned on your own with a counselor. Any registered merit badge counselor for Space Exploration can sign off requirements.