[Launch Alert] Venus Transit

[Launch Alert]

VENUS TRANSIT

The planet Venus will make a rare passage across the Sun's face next week. If you know of any public viewing events, or if you're organizing an expedition for the transit, please send me the details for publication in Launch Alert.

Brian Webb

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PREPARATIONS UNDERWAY FOR X-37B LANDING
Vandenberg AFB News Release
2012 May 30

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. - Preparations for the second landing of
the X-37B, the Air Force's unmanned, reusable space plane, are underway at
Vandenberg Air Force Base.

While the exact landing date and time will depend on technical and weather
considerations, it is expected to occur during the early- to mid-June
timeframe. Space professionals from the 30th Space Wing will monitor the
de-orbit and landing of the Air Force's X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle mission,
called OTV-2.

The X-37B launched March 5, 2011, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station,
Fla. Since then, Vandenberg crews have conducted extensive, periodic
training in preparation for landing. "The men and women of Team Vandenberg
are ready to execute safe landing operations anytime and at a moment's
notice," said Col. Nina Armagno, 30th Space Wing commander.

More information will be released as it becomes available