US Space Force releases 1st image of X-37B

The Space Force shares a photo of Earth taken by the X-37B space plane
On Friday, the Space Force published a picture taken last year from a camera mounted on the secretive X-37B space plane while high above the Earth. Space.com notes that the “one other glimpse” of the plane in space was while it was “deploying from Falcon Heavy’s upper stage” during its December 2023 launch.
US Space Force reveals 1st look at secretive X-37B space plane in orbit (photo)
While the U.S. Space Force, and its previous operator the U.S. Air Force, have been tightlipped about what the space plane does on its lengthy missions, what is known is that the X-37B serves as a test platform for new space technologies.
US Space Force releases first image of X-37B after its seventh mission
The US Space Force has revealed the first images of its secretive X-37B space plane, which has been in orbit for more than a year.
U.S. Space Force Revealed the First-Ever Photo of Its Secretive X-37B in Orbit
For the first time ever, the U.S. Space Force has released a photo of its highly classified X-37B space plane in orbit, offering the public a rare look at one of the most secretive spacecraft in operation today.
What we know: Secretive Space Force X-37B space plane sends back photo of Earth
According to Boeing, the X-37B has a body and landing operation similar to the Space Shuttle, however it is smaller, measuring in at just one-fourth the size of the shuttle. "The X-37B design combines the best of aircraft and spacecraft into an affordable system that is easy to operate and maintain," the description read.
How The X-37B Is Shaping The Future Of The U.S. Space Force
During the first six missions, the X-37B spent more than 3,774 days in orbit. It launched on its current mission, OTV-7, on Dec. 28, 2023, and passed 400 days in orbit on Jan. 31. By comparison, the space shuttle spent 1,323 days in space during NASA shuttle flights between April 1981 and July 2011.
US Releases First Official Picture Of Secretive X-37B Space Plane In Orbit
Operated by the Space Force's Rapid Capabilities Office, the 29-foot-long X-37B with a 15-foot wingspan is designed to test advanced technologies.
Secretive X-37B space plane shares first images from orbit; see photos
For the first time, the US military shared an orbital selfie from its mysterious X-37B space plane, which captured Earth from high above Africa.
The US Space Force needs a 'warfighting ethos' and increased funding to compete with China in space: report
The US Space Force faces "systemic issues" that threaten its long-term chances of success against China, a report argues.
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