Americans test an X-37b orbital plane: what is it interesting to the military (video)
These operations have been conducted within the OTV-7 mission, which began on December 23, 2023 and has been going on for almost a year. During this time, experiments were conducted on board X-37b to study the impact of radiation, as well as to test new military technologies. The X-37B space aircraft, designed for orbital experiments, is used solely for scientific and military purposes and is not intended for transportation of people.
During the current mission, a decision was made on the use of airhogalm - the method of changing the orbit of a spacecraft with minimal fuel consumption. This process covers a series of passages through the upper layers of the Earth, where aerodynamic resistance gradually reduces the speed of the apparatus and changes its orbital parameters.
Aeroogalum allows not only to optimize fuel consumption, but also to effectively manage space objects, reducing the risk of space debris - a question that is becoming more relevant in the face of increasing the number of objects in the Earth orbit. This is the first case in the history of the X-37B program, when a similar maneuver was held, which was an important step for demonstrating multiple space technologies.
Meanwhile, the USSF did not reveal the parameters of the orbit on which the flight was made or the period during which it took place. As noted by Defense One, a new test flight is raising additional questions about the appointment of a plane in space and how the military can use this ability to avoid threats in space. "This first-of-a-kind X-37B maneuver is an incredibly important milestone for the US space forces, as we strive to expand our capabilities and abilities in this complex industry.