Orbital Flight Test (OFT)

The Orbital Flight Test (OFT) is a mission that tests a spacecraft or rocket in space before it is used for operational purposes. It involves launching an object into orbit to evaluate its systems, performance, and safety in the actual environment of space. This helps engineers ensure the vehicle functions correctly, identifying and fixing issues before carrying out future missions that might carry cargo or astronauts. Essentially, the OFT acts as a comprehensive trial run, providing critical data to improve reliability and success for subsequent, more complex space missions.