A SpaceX Falcon Heavy launched the USSF-52 mission to orbit from Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) at Kennedy Space Center in Florida on December 28 at 8:07 p.m. ET. This was the fifth launch and landing of these Falcon Heavy side boosters, which previously supported USSF-44, USSF-67, Hughes JUPTER 3, and NASA’s Psyche mission.
X-37B Mission 7, also known as OTV-7, will expand the United States Space Force’s knowledge of the space environment by experimenting with future space domain awareness technologies. These tests are integral in ensuring safe, stable, and secure operations in space for all users of the domain.
The X-37B stands as one of the latest and most sophisticated re-entry spacecraft globally, engineered for operations within the low-earth orbit, ranging from 150 to 500 miles above Earth's surface. This unmanned vehicle, a pioneering advancement since the Space Shuttle, possesses the unique capability to bring experiments back to Earth for thorough examination and analysis. Serving the United States Air Force, the X-37B delves into reusable vehicle technologies, aligning with strategic objectives for sustainable long-term space exploration.
Click here to learn more about the X-37B Spaceplane.
