X-37 passes inital flight

[Consumer]

Ok, now the US has a re-usable, quick response orbital vehicle. At least one that they admit they have. First flight "fulfilled all mission objectives" without disclosure of what those were.

What we do know:
Launch, 4 major orbital changes, and recovery appear to have all gone pretty well. 244 days on orbit.

The payload bay is "about the size of a pickup truck bed" and has about 1000 lbs capacity.

Wonder what we are going to use it for?

BTW, they are building a second one...

 

[starguard]

BTW, they are building a second one...

Pssst....I'll let you in on a little secret

Spoiler

They already have a second one, and even...a third

 

[jack]

you were blinking when you asked it's purpose I assume? That wide eyed deerintheheadlights kind of blink?

Otherwise a half ton payload with the ability to change orbits and fly around up there for a year makes it the best weapon on earth.

 

[jack]

Compared to the shuttle that things a nice car.

 

[Sarek]

The payload bay is "about the size of a pickup truck bed" and has about 1000 lbs capacity.

Wonder what we are going to use it for?.

Oh cool. So it's the Avalanche of space. Looks cool but completely worthless for hauling.

 

[ThatSunrise]

http://www.space.com/missionlaunches/photos-x-37b-robot-space-plane-landing-101203.html

 

[jack]

Yep. Four on the floor.