The U.S. Space Force’s mysterious X-37B space plane is about to test a series of novel maneuvers high above the Earth.
A variant of NASA’s X-37A space plane, designed by Boeing, the X-37B has remained a subject of secrecy. The upcoming tests aim to ensure the platform’s viability in the face of an increasing likelihood of space being a battleground in future conflicts.
The X-37B’s current mission follows its launch aboard a SpaceX Falcon rocket last December. Since then, the plane has maintained a highly elliptical orbit around Earth. In the interim, the Space Force and the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office have conducted several experiments on the X-37B, focusing on radiation exposure and Space Domain Awareness technologies.
The latest maneuvers concentrate on aerobraking and disposal. Aerobraking involves a series of passes that use Earth’s atmospheric drag to adjust the craft’s orbit while conserving fuel. During these maneuvers, the craft will jettison service module components, aiming to reduce the accumulation of space debris around Earth. Following this phase, the plane will proceed with additional orbital experiments. Once these experiments are complete, the X-37B is scheduled to de-orbit and return to Earth.
Space Force leaders have praised the X-37B’s achievements. Frank Kendall, Secretary of the Air Force, stated, “This novel and efficient series of maneuvers demonstrates the Space Force’s commitment to achieving groundbreaking innovation as it conducts national security missions in space.”
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