X-37 Spaceplane Lands But Purpose Still Clouded | Aviation International News

X-37 Spaceplane Lands But Purpose Still Clouded

The U.S.

The U.S. Air Force is evaluating the Boeing X-37B as an unmanned orbital test vehicle.

By Chris Pocock • Defense Correspondent

December 16, 2010

The U.S. Air Force/Boeing X-37B spacecraft returned to earth by landing at Vandenberg AFB in California on December 3. Aside from some damage from space debris and a blown tire on rollout, the 244-day flight was a success, said officials.

The X-37B is a small Space Shuttle-like spacecraft that is being evaluated as an unmanned orbital test vehicle. It is launched into orbit by an Atlas 5 rocket. The Air Force hopes to load the X-37 with equipment designed for use on satellites and the International Space Station, send it into orbit for up to 270 days of testing, and bring it back again.

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