The U.S. Space Force has launched the X-37B spaceplane on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket to conduct unknown experimental space technologies with the ability to send laser communications and quantum inertial sensors.

The U.S. Space Force has deployed its X-37B space plane on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Liftoff was successful at 11:50 p.m. EDT on August 21; the first stage landed back at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station a few minutes later.

The X-37B is an experimental spacecraft reportedly known as the Orbital Test Vehicle (OTV) to test new technologies in space. The latest mission, OTV-8, is testing new development technologies, such as laser communications and a quantum-inertial sensor, to increase capabilities in GPS-deprived locations and enable future missions in deep space.

They noted that laser communications would be more secure and rapid than the radio-based systems, enhancing space resiliency in the U.S. The missions will also trial communications with proliferated satellite networks, most likely SpaceX Starlink.

Boeing built the uncrewed, 29-foot X-37B, which resembles a smaller version of NASA's earlier shuttle. Its predecessor went on a mission that covered 434 days, an indication of how it has stood the test of time in space. Despite the classified nature of OTV-8, the mission showcases a growing emphasis on space operations and technological superiority.

It is the third launch of the X-37B using a SpaceX rocket, making the company and its products or services even closer to U.S. defense programs.