The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is deploying its engineers to solve the riddle of why its Falcon Hypersonic Technology Vehicle 2 (HTV-2) stopped sending data just nine minutes into its mission.
 

According to the Agency, the Minotaur Lite launch system did what it was supposed to, namely deliver the HTV-2 glide vehicle to desired altitude, execute a series of energy management drills, break free of the clamshell fairing, and launch the HTV-2. However after approximately nine minutes, the vehicle experienced a terminal signal loss.

 

According to the DARPA Web site, the Falcon program objectives are to develop and demonstrate hypersonic technologies that will enable prompt global reach missions. The technologies include high lift-to-drag techniques, high temperature materials, precision navigation, guidance, and control, communications through plasma, and an autonomous flight safety system.