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Secretive X-37B space plane shares first images from orbit; see photos
- The US Space Force's secretive X-37B space plane shared an image from orbit for the first time, showcasing Earth from high above the African continent during its seventh mission in late 2023.
- A reusable orbital test vehicle, the X-37B has been practicing unique maneuvers in orbit to adjust its position with minimal fuel, focusing on future space domain technologies.
- Originally designed by Boeing for satellite monitoring and repair, the X-37 project became classified due to its military applications and evolved into the X-37B for the Air Force.
- The X-37B's missions, including testing materials in space and satellite deployment, are largely classified, leading to speculation about its military purposes.
- Since its inception in 1999, the X-37B has conducted several missions, with its seventh mission launched in December 2023 atop a Falcon Heavy rocket from SpaceX.
- During its current mission, the X-37B is experimenting with space domain awareness technologies and aerobraking maneuvers to adjust orbit and dispose of components efficiently.
- Compared to China's Shenlong space plane, the X-37B remains shrouded in secrecy while playing a crucial role in advancing space-based technology for orbital warfare.
- Although details about its military applications are classified, operating in space for decades has given the US an advantage, with China's Shenlong program following closely behind.
- The Shenlong, China's spacecraft project, shares similarities with the X-37B in terms of maneuverability and payload deployment, with limited public information available about its capabilities.
- Both the X-37B and the Shenlong are key players in the realm of space-based technologies, showcasing advancements and capabilities in orbital warfare for their respective countries.
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