US Space Force's X-37B Spaceplane Prepares for Historic Return After 10 Months in Orbit

US Space Force's X-37B Spaceplane Prepares for Historic Return After 10 Months in Orbit
The US Space Force has announced that its X-37B spaceplane will soon return to Earth after nearly 10 months in orbit. This marks the seventh flight and fourth mission of the second-generation X-37B, designed by Boeing. As part of its return, the spaceplane will execute first-ever aerobraking maneuvers, altering its orbit prior to re-entry. Some components will detach and remain in space, following standards for debris mitigation. The exact return date is yet to be confirmed, but a runway landing is anticipated soon, completing another chapter of the X-37B's remarkable capabilities.