The X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle, operated by the US Space Force, began its seventh mission on December 29, 2023. This mysterious space plane, designed for Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) operations, is testing new technologies while investigating space radiation effects.
According to a science report published on sciencealert.com on Wednesday, in a first for the X-37B, it will perform aerobraking—using the drag of Earth’s upper atmosphere to change its orbit and reduce speed without wasting fuel. This technique allows the spacecraft to avoid detection by potential adversaries during future missions.
Officials highlight that this manoeuvre builds on years of experience from earlier missions to the Moon and Mars. The X-37B will continue its tests, including experiments on plant seeds provided by NASA, before eventually returning to Earth. The mission showcases the Space Force's commitment to innovation and national security in space.
