Cape Canaveral, Florida – August 22, 2025:

The U.S. Space Force has successfully launched its eighth X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle (OTV-8) mission, designated USSF-36, in partnership with SpaceX. The reusable spaceplane lifted off at 11:50 p.m. ET on August 21 from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, riding atop a Falcon 9 rocket.

The mission underscores Washington’s commitment to advancing defense-oriented space technologies and ensuring resilience in orbital operations.


SpaceX Launches USSF-36 Mission
   SpaceX Launches USSF-36 Mission


Cutting-Edge Experiments in Orbit

USSF-36 is focused on next-generation technology demonstrations, including:

High-bandwidth inter-satellite laser communications – enabling faster and more secure data transfers across space assets.

The world’s most advanced quantum inertial sensor ever tested in space – providing navigation accuracy without relying on GPS signals.

These innovations aim to reduce vulnerabilities and improve independent, resilient space navigation networks.


Falcon 9 Reuse and Booster Landing

The Falcon 9 first stage was on its sixth flight, showcasing SpaceX’s reusability model. After stage separation, the booster successfully attempted to land at Landing Zone 2, Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

This further demonstrates how reusable rockets lower launch costs while increasing launch frequency for government and commercial partners.


The X-37B’s Expanding Legacy

The X-37B spaceplane is known for its ability to conduct long-duration classified missions. Past missions have lasted more than 900 days in orbit. While its full objectives remain secret, it has been used to test:

New navigation systems

Advanced communication tools

Space materials research

With USSF-36, the X-37B continues to serve as a key experimental platform for future military and commercial space applications.


Strategic Collaboration

This launch is part of the collaboration between the U.S. Space Force, Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office, and SpaceX. Together, they are pushing forward innovations in space defense, navigation, and communications.

Such missions strengthen U.S. resilience in orbit and showcase the growing role of private space companies in national security.


FAQ's 

Q1. What is the USSF-36 mission?
The USSF-36 is the eighth flight of the X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle (OTV-8), launched on a SpaceX Falcon 9 to test next-generation space technologies.

Q2. What new technologies are being tested on this mission?
Key experiments include inter-satellite laser communications and a quantum inertial sensor to enable navigation without GPS.

Q3. Why is the X-37B important?
The X-37B is a reusable spaceplane capable of long-duration, classified missions that help test technologies for future space operations.

Q4. Who operates the X-37B?
It is operated by the U.S. Space Force and the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office, with launch support from SpaceX.

Q5. How many times has Falcon 9’s booster been reused in this mission?
The booster for USSF-36 was on its sixth flight, highlighting SpaceX’s cost-saving reusability.