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2h ago

Space Force’s X-37B Set for Thursday Night Launch on SpaceX Falcon 9

The classified test flight will trial laser links plus a quantum inertial sensor to boost resilience in space operations.

The X-37B on Earth. Credit: Boeing/USAF
X-37B spaceplane.
Image
The Boeing-built X-37B spaceplane lands at Vandenberg Space Force Base to complete its seventh mission on March 7, 2025. A second version of the X-37B is slated to launch for its eight mission from Kennedy Space Center on Thursday night. (Courtesy/U.S. Space Force)

Overview

  • An FAA advisory sets a launch window from 11:40 p.m. ET Thursday to 5:11 a.m. ET Friday from Kennedy Space Center’s LC-39A.
  • Designated USSF-36/OTV-8, the mission highlights demonstrations of inter-satellite laser communications and a high‑performance quantum inertial sensor for GPS‑denied navigation.
  • SpaceX will fly Falcon 9 booster B1092 on its sixth mission with a planned landing attempt at Landing Zone 2 about 8.5 minutes after liftoff.
  • Operations are led by the Fifth Space Operations Squadron alongside the U.S. Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office, with mission duration and orbital details undisclosed.
  • The 45th Weather Squadron forecasts 65% to 80% favorable conditions as forecasters track potential effects from Hurricane Erin near the region.