Atlas V Rocket Launches Mini Space Plane on Dec. 11

A prototype plane will be launched from the Kenned Space Center this coming Tuesday:

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Atlas V Rocket Launches Mini Space Plane Dec. 11

Launch Viewing Available at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. (Dec. 7, 2012) – Experience the excitement of a space launch from Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex as an Atlas V rocket launches a space plane prototype on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2012. Special launch viewing areas for guests and live launch commentary from mission control are included in admission to the Visitor Complex. The launch window is scheduled between 1:03 and 6:03 p.m. EDT from Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.

United Launch Alliance’s Atlas V rocket will carry X-37B, a prototype of an unmanned space plane or an orbital test vehicle (OTV), in its secret cargo. The X-37B space plane, developed by The Boeing Company, is the newest and most advanced re-entry spacecraft. This prototype measures at 29 feet in length and can return to Earth and land like an airplane. The mission, named OTV-3, is the second flight of this re-usable spacecraft. The first flight successfully landed at Vadenberg Air Force Base on Dec. 3, 2012, after 224 days in orbit.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s operating hours may be extended based on the actual launch time. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 877-313-2610 or visit www.KennedySpaceCenter.com. Launch viewing is included with admission. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex admission is $50+ tax for adults and $40 + tax for children ages 3-11.

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It sounds like this could lead to a possible prototype to be used to go to space without a Space Shuttle.