X-37B Spaceplane Completes Historic 434-Day Mission

VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, California — The unmanned X-37B spaceplane successfully returned to Earth on March 7, 2025, after completing a remarkable 434-day mission in high Earth orbit, focusing on testing advanced technologies for the U.S. military.

This milestone landing at Vandenberg Space Force Base marks a significant achievement for the U.S. Space Force, showcasing its growing capabilities in space. The X-37B is designed to conduct long-duration missions that enhance national security.

Officials stated that this mission demonstrated the Space Force’s commitment to advancing its operational effectiveness in space as the environment becomes increasingly contested. The successful return also brings with it crucial insights and advancements necessary for future space operations.

“The X-37B’s latest mission illustrates our focus on innovation and advanced technology,” said Maj. General William Cooley, the commander of the Space Force’s Space Systems Command. “This spaceplane is paving the way for future military and scientific explorations.”

Among the notable achievements during this mission was the successful execution of aerobraking, an orbital maneuver that utilizes atmospheric drag to change orbits with reduced fuel consumption. This technique is anticipated to extend the lifespan of future spacecraft and enhance mission capabilities.

As the space environment grows densely populated, the X-37B has also conducted experiments focused on space domain awareness technology, essential for tracking potential threats and ensuring safe U.S. operations in the space domain. “Understanding our operational environment is crucial, especially as more countries and entities engage in space activities,” Cooley added.

The implications of this mission extend far beyond the X-37B’s operational parameters. It also reflects the broader strategic goals of the Space Force as it continues to develop military capabilities in response to evolving global threats.

As technology in space advances, missions like the X-37B’s could play a central role in shaping national security and scientific exploration in the years ahead. The successful completion of this long-duration mission signals the beginning of a new era of exploration.