Space Force Preps Secretive X-37B Spaceplane for 8th Test Flight

The long-running, secretive X-37B spaceplane project has a new mission on the books, according to the US Space Force. On August 21, the Boeing-developed X37 aircraft will take its eighth flight with a mission designation of Orbital Test Vehicle-8 (OTV-8). The mission is designed to test key navigation and communication technologies that could help US aircraft and aerospace vehicles operate as enemies deny GPS navigation and radio-based communication.

Boeing has worked on the X37 since 1999, though the spaceplane didn't fly for the first time until 2010. Designed as a long-term orbital craft, it is also entirely reusable and recoverable, able to land in much the same way as the Space Shuttle that inspired its design. It is the smallest and lightest orbital spaceplane yet flown, and it's already demonstrated the ability to remain in orbit for over 900 days, showcasing its resilience to spacebound dangers and long-term ...