Falcon 9 Block 5 | OTV-8 (X-37B) (USSF-36)
Launch Successful
L - -- : -- : -- : --
Launch Window
Aug. 22, 2025, 3:40 a.m. - Aug. 22, 2025, 7:40 a.m.
Aug. 22, 2025, 3:40 a.m. - Aug. 22, 2025, 7:40 a.m.
Eighth flight of the X-37B program. The X-37B is a dynamic and responsive spacecraft responsible for conducting a range of tests and experiments that expedite the development of critical next-generation technologies and operational concepts for reusable space capabilities. The OTV-8 mission in Low Earth Orbit includes operational demonstrations and experiments of next-generation technologies, including laser communications and the highest performing strategic grade quantum inertial sensor ever tested in space. Mission partners include the Air Force Research Lab and the Defense Innovation Unit, respectively.
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Launch successfull.
Spacecraft separation.
Liftoff!
Updated launch weather, 90% GO.
Updated launch weather, 65% GO at start of window (80% GO at end).
Falcon 9 is a two-stage rocket designed and manufactured by SpaceX for the reliable and safe transport of satellites and the Dragon spacecraft into orbit. The Block 5 variant is the fifth major interval aimed at improving upon the ability for rapid reusability.
See DetailsThe Falcon 9 first stage B1092 has landed back at the launch site at Landing Zone 2 (LZ-2) after its 6th flight.
Result: Successful Return to Launch Site landing at Landing Zone 2.First X-37B. First flight on April 22, 2010.
X-37B DetailsSpace Exploration Technologies Corp., known as SpaceX, is an American aerospace manufacturer and space transport services company headquartered in Hawthorne, California. It was founded in 2002 by entrepreneur Elon Musk with the goal of reducing space transportation costs and enabling the colonization of Mars. SpaceX operates from many pads, on the East Coast of the US they operate from SLC-40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and historic LC-39A at Kennedy Space Center. They also operate from SLC-4E at Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, usually for polar launches. Another launch site is being developed at Boca Chica, Texas.
INFO WIKI
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The uncrewed spacecraft will operate in low Earth orbit for an unspecified amount of time. This is the eighth launch of an X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle since its first flight in 2010.
The U.S. Department of Defense’s reusable X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle (OTV) is about to make… The post X-37B set to launch on USSF-36 mission aboard Falcon 9 appeared first on NASASpaceFlight.com.
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