“These tests include operating reusable spacecraft in new orbital regimes, experimenting with future space domain awareness technologies, and based on NASA-provided materials,” the U.S. Department of the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office said in a statement last month. “Includes investigating radiation effects.”
It said this is the first time that the
The size of a small bus, the X-37B American space drone resembles a miniature version of the human Space Shuttle retired in 2011. On previous missions, the X-37B has conducted tests for NASA on the effects of radiation on seeds. and other materials.