Robot Space Plane Settles into Mystery Mission

The X-37B, a prototype space drone operated by the U.S. Air Force, is entering the third month of a classified space mission


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Confusion and speculation

While missions of X-37B remain obscure, the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS), headquartered in Cambridge, Mass., criticizes the program as a less-than-cost-effective way to conduct space activities.

UCS space experts assert that, while the space plane is versatile and capable, there are better, more efficient and more cost-effective ways of carrying out the X-37B's possible missions.

"And because it is an Air Force project and its details are classified, the plane has generated confusion, speculation and, in some cases, concern about its actual purpose" a UCS document issued prior to the OTV-3 mission launch said.

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  1. 1. alan6302 03:02 PM 2/22/13

    It has the same mission as Moonraker.....depopulation/Agenda 21

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  2. 2. WRQ9 03:51 PM 2/22/13

    N. Korean tectonics may have more than a little to do with new patterns in reconnaissance. I don't imagine there was much to analyze previously along those lines, nor would it bear repeating, at least for now.

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  3. 3. raoharsh 01:28 AM 2/24/13

    http://www.russianspaceweb.com/kliper.html

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  4. 4. elderlybloke in reply to WRQ9 05:49 PM 2/24/13

    The North Koreans will have been under survelance by the umteen Spy Satellites that have orbiting for decades.

    What the Dear Leader had for Lunch will be known.

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  5. 5. Nicholasunik 02:12 PM 2/27/13

    It's intriguing that US conservatives, who hate big government and big public spending, are lobbying for support of the Navy shipyards, and doubtless support most of the massive expenditure on the military or with military applications, like the X37, while the President is accused of neglecting industry and jobs. Big bad federal government is okay as long as its OUR big government? Okay, we ARE all thankful to the US taxpayer for protecting the free world, some of the time anyway.

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  6. 6. Wayne Williamson 06:49 PM 2/28/13

    I think its all very interesting...
    Chances of guessing what they are up to are slim and none...
    My thoughts are...
    What is the power source they are using for the time periods its in orbit...solar or other.
    Great way to not leave debris in orbit or have it hit at random places when it does fall.

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