X-37B Spacecraft Launches into Its Seventh Orbital Adventure
The Boeing [NYSE: BA]-constructed X-37B autonomous spacecraft successfully launched yesterday aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket, heralding the commencement of its seventh mission.
“The collaborative efforts of the X-37B government and Boeing teams have resulted in a more nimble, versatile, and adaptive experimentation platform,” remarked William D. Bailey, Director of the Department of the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office. “The actions they have taken to refine processes and incorporate advancing technologies will enable our nation to gain invaluable insights into operating within and returning from a space environment.”
As in every preceding mission, the Orbital Test Vehicle will authenticate new technologies, nurturing innovation and expanding the horizons of space exploration and applications. During this seventh journey, the X-37B will evaluate future space domain awareness technology experiments vital for ensuring safe, stable, and secure operations in space for all domain users.
“The technological breakthroughs we are fostering on X-37B will benefit the broader space community, especially given the rising interest in sustainable practices in space,” stated Michelle Parker, Space Mission Systems Vice President at Boeing Defense, Space & Security. “We are igniting innovation and capabilities that will shape the next generation of spacecraft.”
Since its debut launch in April 2010, the X-37B has consistently established new endurance milestones, exceeding the original design mission duration of 270 days. Its sixth endeavor set a remarkable record with an astonishing 908-day journey before returning to Earth in November 2022.
The X-37B, which will now build upon its over 1.3 billion miles traversed during its 3,774 days in orbit, exemplifies the thriving collaboration between the Department of the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office and the United States Space Force. Teams at Boeing provide program management, engineering, production, testing, and mission support.
In 2019, the X-37B received the Robert J. Collier Trophy in recognition of its contributions to enhancing the performance, efficiency, and safety of air and space vehicles.
As a premier global aerospace leader, Boeing develops, fabricates, and services commercial aircraft, defense products, and space systems for clientele spread across more than 150 nations. As a significant U.S. exporter, the company harnesses the expertise of a worldwide supplier network to foster economic growth, sustainability, and community benefits. Boeing’s diverse workforce is dedicated to future innovation, prioritizing sustainability, and nurturing a culture anchored in the company’s core principles of safety, quality, and integrity.
