X-37B

OTV, Orbital Test Vehicle

Mission Profile

X-37B (OTV, Orbital Test Vehicle) is the US Space Force's classified reusable autonomous spaceplane, built by Boeing and first launched on 22 April 2010 aboard an Atlas V, conducting autonomous orbital missions of classified purpose before landing on a runway like a miniature Space Shuttle. Two X-37B vehicles have alternated missions lasting from several months to over 900 days in orbit, far exceeding any initial mission plans, experimenting with technologies and conducting experiments whose specific objectives remain classified. The X-37B's longevity, reusability, and large payload bay have attracted significant international attention as a potential platform for space-based reconnaissance, satellite servicing, or other national security missions. As of 2026 the X-37B has accumulated over 3,774 days in orbit across seven missions.