Topics: Space Exploration - 1.2.l Boeing X-37

1.2.l Boeing X-37

The Boeing X-37 Orbital Test Vehicle is an American unmanned spaceplane. It is operated by the United States Air Force for orbital spaceflight missions intended to demonstrate reusable space technologies. The X-37 is a reusable robotic spacecraft that is a 120% scaled derivative of the X-40A. It has a length of over 29 feet and features two angled tail fins. The X-37 began as a NASA project in 1999, then was transferred to the U.S. Department of Defense in 2004. It had its first flight as a drop test on April 7, 2006, at Edwards AFB. The spaceplane's first orbital mission, USA-212 was launched on April 22, 2010 using an Atlas V rocket. Its return to Earth on December 3, 2010, was the first test of the vehicle's heat shield and hypersonic aerodynamic handling.