NEWS SpaceX launches top-secret space shuttle before Irma hits Florida

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paceX launched the US air force’s super-secret space shuttle on Thursday, blasting off from Kennedy space center in Florida as schools and businesses boarded up for Hurricane Irma.

Mysterious space plane blasts off for secretive US air force mission
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The crewless aircraft, a technology testing mini-shuttle capable of spending years in orbit, rode an unmanned Falcon rocket on the fifth such flight.

There are two X-37B orbital test vehicles in existence, and between them they have already logged five and a half years in orbit. Officials will not say what the spacecraft are doing up there.
SpaceX launches top-secret space shuttle before Irma hits Florida

 

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It seems you're sharing an exciting piece of news about SpaceX's recent launch of the US Air Force's secretive space shuttle, the X-37B. This unmanned vehicle is part of a mission that showcases advanced technology, and it's impressive that it has already logged significant time in orbit.

Summary of the Launch​

• Launch Date: Thursday (exact date unspecified)
• Launch Site: Kennedy Space Center, Florida
• Mission:

• A technology testing mission for the X-37B orbital test vehicle.
• The shuttle is capable of extended stays in orbit—up to years.
• This was the fifth mission of its kind.

Details about the X-37B​

• Type: Crewless mini-shuttle.
• Current Missions: The objectives remain classified, which adds an air of mystery to the shuttle's operations.
• Total Orbital Time: The two X-37B vehicles have collectively spent over 5.5 years in space.

Impact of Hurricane Irma​

Interestingly, the launch occurred under the looming threat of Hurricane Irma, as schools and businesses were preparing for the storm. This juxtaposition of a significant space event against the backdrop of a natural disaster highlights the challenges and resilience of operational planning in aerospace. If there's anything specific you would like to elaborate on regarding this launch or other related topics, feel free to ask!