The Boeing-built X-37B is an uncrewed, autonomous spaceplane designed for advanced experimentation and technology testing. With its unparalleled flexibility and maneuverability, the X-37B is setting new standards in space exploration.
Setting the Pace of Innovation
Breaking Records and Pushing Boundaries
The X-37B has completed six successful missions, logging over 1.3 billion miles and spending thousands of days in space. Each mission adds new capabilities and technology tests, making the X-37B a critical platform for advancing space technology.
From aerobraking maneuvers to space domain awareness experiments, the X-37B continues to innovate and achieve remarkable milestones.
Advanced Capabilities for the Future
The X-37B is equipped with state-of-the-art technologies that provide exceptional performance and durability. Its modular design allows for a wide range of experiments and missions, making it a versatile and valuable asset in space exploration. The X-37B’s autonomous re-entry capability ensures safe and reliable returns, enabling quick refurbish, reprocess, and re-fly cycles. This adaptability supports a variety of scientific and technological advancements, contributing to the future of space exploration.
By the Numbers
2
Vehicles
6
Completed missions
1.3+ Billion
Miles in orbit
4,000+
Days on orbit
908
Days duration of longest mission
2
Service module
deployments
Key Facts
First Launch
April 22, 2010
Experiments Conducted
Numerous, including NASA’s space radiation studies and space domain awareness technologies
Launch Vehicles Used
Atlas V, Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy
Landing Sites
Kennedy Space Center, Vandenberg Space Force Base
Latest News
How The X-37B Is Shaping The Future Of The U.S. Space Force
The military spaceplane is logging hundreds of days on orbit to collect data for future development.
X-37B named finalist for top aerospace honor
The X-37B has been named one of five finalists for the 2024 Collier Trophy by the National Aeronautic Association. The award recognizes the “greatest achievement in aeronautics or astronautics in America.”
X-37B to perform midmission demonstration
Advanced space maneuvering will expand knowledge of dynamic operations between orbits.
X-37B space plane 7th mission underway
Boeing, NAV CANADA testing new taxi technology to improve operational efficiency, enhance safety.
X-37B Breaks Records, Brings Home Experiments
Boeing and the U.S. Department of the Air Force – which now includes the Space Force – have a long, intertwined history together, enabling the highest priority national defense missions.
X-37B team receives prestigious Collier Trophy
Boeing’s newest sustainability testbed displays its novel Air Traffic Management approach across four countries.