The US Space Force's X-37B spacecraft has returned to Earth after completing a 434-day classified mission in orbit. Boeing's unmanned vehicle, which looks like a miniature space shuttle, landed safely at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. During its seventh mission since 2010, the solar-powered craft conducted secret military experiments and participated in NASA studies. The X-37B's mysterious activities continue to intrigue observers wondering what's next for this advanced space platform.
After spending 434 days in orbit, a secretive U.S. military spacecraft called the X-37B has returned safely to Earth. The unmanned vehicle touched down at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, with officials announcing its arrival several hours after landing. Photos released by the military showed personnel in protective suits approaching the spacecraft on the runway.
The X-37B, built by Boeing, launched from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in December 2023 aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket. This solar-powered spacecraft measures 29 feet long with a wingspan of nearly 15 feet, making it a compact but capable vehicle for military experiments in space. The vehicle operates like NASA's retired space shuttles but is just one-fourth their size.
During its mission, the X-37B carried out classified military experiments and participated in a NASA study examining how radiation affects various materials. The spacecraft demonstrated impressive capabilities, including the use of aerobraking techniques to change its orbit. This innovative method uses atmospheric drag to slow down and adjust the spacecraft's path while conserving fuel.
Lt. Col. Blaine Stewart, the program director, confirmed the mission was successful in meeting all objectives. This latest flight marks the seventh mission for the X-37B program, which began in 2010. The spacecraft has consistently pushed boundaries, with one previous mission lasting an incredible 908 days in orbit. Each flight has helped advance space technology and expand our understanding of orbital operations.
The X-37B doesn't need astronauts to operate, as it relies on an autonomous landing system to return safely to Earth. It's designed to be reusable, allowing the Space Force to conduct multiple missions with the same vehicle. This feature makes it an efficient platform for testing new technologies and conducting space experiments.
While many details about the X-37B's activities remain classified, this mission has demonstrated significant advances in space operations. The spacecraft's successful use of new orbital techniques and its ability to conduct long-duration missions show how space technology continues to evolve.
These achievements are paving the way for future developments in military space operations and exploration.