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Boeing built X-37B ‘autonomous spaceplane’ marked the beginning of its seventh mission when it was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket at the end of December. As it has with every mission, the Orbital Test Vehicle will ‘validate new technologies, fostering innovation and pushing the boundaries of space exploration and utility’. On this seventh flight, the X-37B will ‘test future space domain awareness technology experiments’ that are integral in ensuring safe, stable, and secure operations in space ‘for all users of the domain’.
Michelle Parker, Space Mission Systems vice president at Boeing Defence, Space and Security, said: “The technological advancements we are driving on X-37B will benefit the broader space community, especially as we see increased interest in space sustainability. We are pushing innovation and capability that will influence the next generation of spacecraft.
“Since its inaugural launch in April 2010, the X-37B has consistently set new endurance records, surpassing the initial design mission duration of 270 days. Its sixth mission set a new record with a 908-day journey before returning to Earth in November 2022.”
The X-37B, which will now build on its more than 1.3 billion miles travelled during its 3,774 days in space, ‘exemplifies the successful partnership’ between the Department of the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office and the United States Space Force. Boeing teams deliver programme management, engineering, production, test, and mission support.