The US Space Force has released the first-ever photo showing the secret X-37B spaceplane on an orbital mission. The term “secret” refers to the fact that X-37B missions are largely classified. The United States only discloses general information about its missions but does not provide details about the technologies being tested on board or the specific mission objectives. It is also unclear how long the current mission will last or exactly what experiments are being conducted. The photo, released on February 20, 2025, was taken by the X-37B’s onboard camera, showing the Earth in the background and portions of the spacecraft’s structure, including the solar panel and open payload bay. The mission was launched on December 28, 2023, when the X-37B took off aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket. 

A SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket launches the X-37B spaceplane as part of the USSF-52 mission for the United States Space Force on December 28, 2023, from launch pad 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. (Photo: SpaceX) 

Novel orbital maneuvers 

During its seventh mission, the X-37B conducted a series of innovative aerobraking maneuvers. The technique involves using atmospheric drag to reduce the spacecraft’s speed, allowing it to effectively change orbit with minimal fuel consumption. Previously, aerobraking was mainly used in interplanetary missions, such as the Magellan probe exploring Venus and the Mars Global Surveyor operating on Mars. The X-37B’s use of this technique is the first of its kind in orbital missions around Earth. 

Although many aspects of the X-37B mission remain classified, it is known that the spacecraft serves as a test platform for new space technologies. During the current mission, space situational awareness systems are being tested and the effects of radiation on various materials are being studied to support long-term US space goals. Additionally, the X-37B will also deploy the FalconSat-8 satellite, developed by the U.S. Air Force Academy and equipped with experimental propulsion and communications systems.  

Earth as seen in the first orbital photo released by the X-37B (left); the spaceplane prepares for its seventh mission, set to launch on December 28, 2023. (Photo source: US Space Force) 

The X-37B’s previous sixth mission ended on November 12, 2022, after a record 908 days in orbit. The current mission, launched in December 2023, continues to test advanced technologies and orbital maneuvers. Although the exact date of the X-37B’s return to Earth has not been disclosed, the program plays a key role in the development of future space technologies and operational strategies of the US Space Force. 

 Sources: geekweek.interia.pl, en.wikipedia.org, space.com / Cover photo: US Space Force