The experimental Boeing-built X-37B autonomous spacecraft, also known as the Orbital Test Vehicle (OTV), began its seventh mission on 28 December 2023 when it was launched from Kennedy Space Center in Florida aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket.
Operated by the Department of the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office (DAF RCO) in collaboration with the US Space Force, the X-37B is designed to validate new technologies, foster innovation and push the boundaries of space exploration and utility. On its seventh flight the craft will test future space domain awareness technology experiments that are integral in ensuring safe, stable and secure operations in space.
The X-37B operates like a mini-version of its much larger Space Shuttle predecessor. It is propelled into space by a launch vehicle, performs its mission, and then descends back to Earth as a spaceplane.
“The X-37B government and Boeing teams have worked together to produce a more responsive, flexible, and adaptive experimentation platform,” William D Bailey, the DAF RCO director, was quoted as saying in a Boeing press release. “The work they’ve done to streamline processes and adapt evolving technologies will help our nation learn a tremendous amount about operating in and returning from a space environment.”
Michelle Parker, Space Mission Systems vice president at Boeing Defense, Space & Security, added, “The technological advancements we’re driving on X-37B will benefit the broader space community, especially as we see increased interest in space sustainability. We are pushing innovation and capability that will influence the next generation of spacecraft.”
Since its inaugural launch in April 2010, the X-37B has consistently set new endurance records, surpassing the initial design mission duration of 270 days. Its sixth mission set a new record with a 908-day mission before returning to Earth in November 2022.
The X-37B had travelled more than 1.3 billion miles and spent 3,774 days in space at the time it was launched for its seventh mission.
