Air Force to build unmanned space planes

[qzzq]

I don't know if this has been posted somewhere already, but I couldn't find it, so...<br /><br />From NewScientistSpace.com: <ul type="square"><b>US Air Force to build unmanned space planes</b><br /><br />The US Air Force is working on an unmanned space plane based on NASA's X-37 programme, which at one time was planned to be the basis for the space shuttle's successor. If successful, the plane would be the first spacecraft since the shuttle that would be capable of returning experiments back to Earth for analysis.<br /><br />The reusable X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle (OTV) would be about one-fourth the size of the space shuttle and would deliver objects into low-Earth orbit in its experimental bay, which is much like the shuttle's payload bay. <br /><br />It could then continue orbiting for months before bringing the objects back to Earth. That would allow it to test how satellite components react to long stays in space. <br /><br />...<br /><br />The OTV's first flight is scheduled for fiscal year 2008 (1 October 2007 to 30 September 2008). It will launch atop an Atlas 5 rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, US. <br /><br />... (More at the link)</ul><img src="/images/icons/cool.gif" /> <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> <p> </p><p>***</p> </div>

 

[space_dreamer]

Yes, it’s posted on missions and launches but its still excellent news! <br /><br />Leave exploration missions with heavy lift rockets to NASA. The USAF can do quick turnaround, reusable space plane R&D. After all before the mistaken STS program the USAF rocket plane programs were progressing well X-15, X-20(cancelled but a lot was learned), X24a 24b etc… <br /><br />Maybe the USAF might restart the RS-84 rocket engine program as well, now that would be cool!<br />