Another US military mini shuttle launches on a secret mission
The X-37B spacecraft, about 29 feet long with a 14-foot wingspan, will test laser communications and quantum inertial sensors during its latest classified mission, officials said.
- A U.S. military mini shuttle, the Boeing-built X-37B designated OTV-8, launched from Cape Canaveral on August 21, 2025, for a classified space mission.
- The launch follows the previous X-37B mission that returned to Earth in March after more than 434 days in orbit, continuing a program begun in 2010.
- OTV-8 will demonstrate advanced laser communication links between satellites and utilize a quantum-based navigation sensor to support positioning without relying on GPS, aiming to strengthen the robustness of space networks.
- General Chance Saltzman, head of the Space Operations, indicated that the laser communications demonstration represents a key advancement toward creating more varied and resilient space network architectures.
- This eighth mission reflects the X-37B's ongoing role in advancing U.S. space capabilities through long-duration technology demonstrations with largely classified payloads.
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Pentagon launches secretive X-37B space plane for new mission
The Space Force launched the secretive X-37B orbital test vehicle Thursday night, kickstarting the space plane’s eighth mission. For the effort, dubbed OTV-8, the Boeing-made spacecraft is expected to conduct a wide range of tests and experiments focused on laser communication tech and quantum inertial sensors, according to officials. Thursday night’s launch was a success, according to Space Systems Command. “U.S. Space Force’s National Security…
Another US Military Mini Shuttle Launches on a Secret Mission
·New York, United States
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Leaning Left9Leaning Right3Center30Last UpdatedBias Distribution71% Center
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71% Center
L 21%
C 71%
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