Design
The X-37 Orbital Test Vehicle is a reusable robotic spaceplane. It is a 120%-scale derivative of the Boeing X-40, measuring over 29 feet (8.8 m) in length, and features two angled tail fins. The X-37 launches atop an Atlas V version 501 rocket with a Centaur second stage. The X-37 is designed to operate in a velocity range of up to Mach 25 upon its reentry.
Among the technologies demonstrated in the X-37 include an improved thermal protection system, enhanced avionics, an autonomous guidance system and an advanced airframe. The spaceplane's thermal protection system is built upon previous generations of atmospheric reentry spacecraft, incorporating silica ceramic tiles. The X-37's avionics suite was used by Boeing to develop its CST-100 manned spacecraft. According to NASA, the development of the X-37 will "aid in the design and development of NASA's Orbital Space Plane, designed to provide a crew rescue and crew transport capability to and from the International Space Station".
The X-37 is independently powered by an Aerojet engine using storable propellants, providing thrust of 150-160 lb. The human-rated AR2-3 engine, using non-toxic hydrogen peroxide/kerosene propellants, was originally selected as the X-37 powerplant, but was later dropped. The AR2-3 had been used on the dual-power NF-104A astronaut training vehicle, and was given a new flight certification for use on the X-37 with hydrogen peroxide/JP-8 propellants.
The X-37 lands automatically upon returning from orbit, and is the second reusable spacecraft to have such a capability, after the Soviet Buran shuttle. The X-37 is the smallest and lightest orbital spaceplane flown to date; it is more than 89 feet (27 m) shorter, and 200,000 pounds (90,000 kg) lighter fully loaded, than both the Space Shuttle and Buran orbiters.
Read more about this topic: Boeing X-37
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