The US Space Force’s X-37B space plane is scheduled to launch its eighth mission from Kennedy Space Center, focusing on testing laser communications and a new navigation sensor. The launch window runs until August 22, with backup windows available for midnight Saturday.
The Boeing-built space plane was last launched in December 2023 and landed in March 2025 after spending over 434 days in orbit. On its seventh flight, the X-37B demonstrated an aerobraking maneuver, using atmospheric drag to adjust its orbit while minimizing fuel.
This mission aims to test means of communication and navigation in orbit, with experiments focused on laser communications demos and a new sensor that will enable GPS contact where communication would be difficult. According to General Chance Saltzman, the space plane is crucial for making the Joint Force more connected, resilient, and ready to operate in space.
The X-37B has racked up over 1.3 billion miles during its seven orbital expeditions, with some missions lasting over 900 days. The exact duration of this upcoming mission remains limited due to its classification as a Space Force project.
As the US Space Force continues to advance its space technology capabilities, the X-37B remains an important tool in pushing the boundaries of deep space exploration.
Source: https://eu.floridatoday.com/story/tech/science/space/2025/08/19/what-to-know-secret-space-force-x-37b-space-plane-spacex-rocket-launch-this-week-boeing/85708053007