Insight into the Secretive Operations of the X-37B Spaceplane
This week, a rare glimpse into the activities of a clandestine space craft was unveiled. The U.S. Space Force released an image captured last year by the X-37B, showcasing Earth in the background alongside parts of this enigmatic vehicle. The X-37B embarked on its seventh mission at the tail end of 2023, yet details surrounding this specific undertaking remain largely undisclosed. Notably, its previous flight concluded in 2022 with a remarkable achievement: an unprecedented endurance record of 908 days spent orbiting our planet.
While there is limited insight to be gained from this particular photograph, it nevertheless offers a unique view of the X-37B in action beyond our atmosphere. According to statements made by Space Force on social media platform X, “An onboard camera aboard the X-37B captured an image of Earth while executing experiments in high Earth orbit (HEO) during 2024.”
Source: U.S. Space Force
Pioneering Fuel-Efficient Orbit Adjustments
A significant revelation regarding this ongoing mission involves its pioneering use of aerobraking—a method designed for fuel-efficient orbital adjustments through multiple passes that leverage atmospheric drag. In October, Space Force disclosed that this innovative maneuver had been initiated and recent updates confirm its successful execution. “The X-37B employed aerobraking techniques—first-of-their-kind maneuvers—to safely alter its trajectory with minimal fuel consumption,” stated officials from Space Force.
As for when or how long these operations will continue remains uncertain; however, they demonstrate advances in spacecraft technology and efficiency that could lead to further breakthroughs in both military and scientific applications.
