Space Force’s mysterious X-37B plane returns to Earth after 434 days in orbit

The United States Space Force’s X-37B, a highly classified Boeing-made space plane, successfully touched down on Earth after a remarkable 434-day mission in orbit. The unmanned aircraft, powered by solar energy and capable of remote operation, landed at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at 2:22 a.m. EST.

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During its seventh mission, the X-37B demonstrated its “robust maneuver capability” by utilizing the drag caused by the Earth’s atmosphere to efficiently change its orbit while minimizing fuel consumption. This technique, known as aerobraking, allowed the aircraft to perform tests and experiments in a highly elliptical orbit.

Additionally, Mission 7 tested “space domain awareness technology experiments” aimed at enhancing the United States Space Force’s understanding of the space environment. After successfully completing its test and experimentation objectives, the X-37B executed its deorbit and landing procedures.

General Chance Saltzman, chief of space operations at Space Force, praised Mission 7 for showcasing the X-37B’s ability to adapt and accomplish its objectives across various orbital regimes. The successful execution of the aerobraking maneuver underscored Space Force’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of novel space operations while prioritizing safety and responsibility.

Space Force shared several images of the aircraft after its touchdown, including a picture of a group of personnel in hazmat-like suits approaching the secretive plane.

Lt. Col. Blaine Stewart, the X-37B program director, emphasized that this mission marked a significant milestone in the ongoing development of the agency’s dynamic mission capability.

“Mission 7’s operation in a novel orbital regime, its innovative aerobraking maneuver, and its testing of space domain awareness experiments have penned an exhilarating new chapter in the X-37B program,” Steward remarked.

Last month, the Space Force shared an uncommon image of Earth while conducting experiments.