US Space Force X-37B spaceplane to test quantum navigation and laser comms tech

The X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle (OTV), an uncrewed spaceplane developed by Boeing, is preparing to launch its eighth mission, carrying new space experiments to further future deep-space exploration. 

In a statement issued on July 28, 2025, the manufacturer announced that the new mission comes less than six months after the successful OTV-7 mission, during which its aerobraking capabilities were tested. 

“With each successive flight, the X-37B has demonstrated adaptability and flexibility by hosting diverse experiments and pioneering new orbital regimes,” said Michelle Parker, Vice President of Boeing Space Mission Systems.  

Boeing and US Space Force personnel are preparing the X-37B spaceplane for launch at the company’s facility at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Boeing said the launch window is currently set for no earlier than August 21, 2025. 

New technologies aboard OTV-8 

The spaceplane will carry a service module, which will increase the capacity for experiments and create new opportunities for mission partners like the US Air Force Research Laboratory and the Defense Innovation Unit. 

According to Boeing, the mission will test high-bandwidth inter-satellite laser communications technologies, and the “highest performing” quantum inertial sensor ever tested in space.  

Additionally, Boeing said the US Space Force will be able to “leverage insights from this mission to inform future space architectures.” 

“OTV-8’s laser communications demonstration will mark an important step in the US Space Force’s ability to leverage commercial space networks as part of proliferated, diversified, and redundant space architectures,” commented US Space Force Chief of Space Operations, General Chance Saltzman. 

Positioning without GPS 

The company said that the quantum inertial sensor will test accurate positioning, navigation, and timing in areas without GPS.  

Quantum inertial sensors could support deep space missions and lunar exploration, bringing long-distance space travel a step closer, Boeing added. 

“Ultimately, this technology contributes significantly to our thrust within the Fifth Space Operations Squadron and across the Space Force guaranteeing movement and maneuverability even in GPS-denied environments,” said Space Delta 9 Commander Colonel Ramsey Hom. 

Since its inaugural launch in 2010, the reusable X-37B has accumulated over 4,200 days in orbit across its missions. Built by Boeing’s Phantom Works, the platform is meant to help develop next-generation orbital capabilities for national security, scientific research, and future interplanetary missions. The post US Space Force X-37B spaceplane to test quantum navigation and laser comms tech appeared first on AeroTime.

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