A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched a US military X-37B spaceplane, marking its eighth mission. This unmanned spacecraft, built by Boeing, will test advanced technologies including laser communications and a high-performance quantum inertial sensor, improving space communication resilience and security. The mission's duration is undisclosed, but previous X-37B missions lasted months or even years. The reusable spacecraft, powered by solar panels, is approximately 30 feet long.

Prepared by Jonathan Pierce and reviewed by editorial team.