This highlight reel, provided by Space.com, shows the high points of the launch and return of SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy system, during which the US Space Force’s highly classified X37-B embarked on its 7th mission (referred to as OTV-7). Successive OTV missions have gone further and lasted longer, with OTV-6 clocking in at 908 days. Although other launch services have been used to deploy the spacecraft, this marks the first time SpaceX or Falcon Heavy have been used. The specifics of X37-B’s mission have been kept under wraps, but the information given states that it will take advantage of Falcon Heavy’s power to push the plane out to new orbital regimes. NASA has confirmed that seeds are aboard the spacecraft, as part of the agency’s experimentation regarding the exposure of seeds to high-radiation environments. This hints at work toward furthering the goal of off-world colonization. Although NASA and the Air and Space Forces are separate entities, the obvious cost and time saving benefits have led them to operate in tandem over the years, and this partnership now involves private businesses such as SpaceX and Boeing, which designed the X37-B.

About the Author

Cole Simms

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.

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