The US Space Force has unveiled the first Earth photos taken from orbit by the mysterious X-37B spaceplane. Recorded during the seventh mission that began in December 2023, the image was captured as the spacecraft flew over Africa. China’s development of its reusable spaceplane further intensifies the global space race. The US Space Force has shared the first Earth photos taken by the mysterious X-37B spaceplane used for covert operations. The images were captured during the ongoing seventh (OTV-7) mission that started in December 2023. Released on February 20, the image was taken while the spaceplane was cruising over Africa.

SECRET MISSION HISTORIC PHOTO
According to Space.com, X-37B was launched on December 28, 2023, on its seventh mission using a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket. The US Space Force stated that this mission aims to test the spaceplane’s new orbital regimes, experiment with space domain awareness technologies, and investigate radiation effects on materials provided by NASA. While it was known that the spaceplane previously operated in low Earth orbit, this new image reveals that the X-37B conducted operations much further from Earth. Considering Falcon Heavy’s capability to carry payloads up to 35,000 kilometers, it is believed that the X-37B reached geostationary orbit this time.

The Space Force and manufacturer Boeing announced that the X-37B tested a new technique called “aerobraking maneuver.” This maneuver allows the spacecraft to alter its orbit by utilizing friction in Earth’s atmosphere to minimize fuel consumption. The Space Force’s statement mentioned that “in 2024, the X-37B captured an impressive view of Earth while conducting experiments in a highly elliptical orbit. During this mission, the spacecraft tested aerobraking techniques to safely change its orbit with minimal fuel consumption.”

X-37B FUTURE AND SPACE RACE
The US Space Force often keeps operational details of X-37B under wraps. However, it is known that technologies like beaming solar power from space, thermal protection systems, and autonomous flight capabilities have been tested so far. The completion date of the seventh flight of the spaceplane, which set a record by spending 908 days in orbit during its sixth mission completed in 2022, is currently unknown. On the other hand, China is also developing its reusable spaceplane. Shortly before the last launch of X-37B, China’s spacecraft embarked on its third mission. This development signals a new global competition in space exploration.