Boeing X-37

High school (ages 12+)
Space & Astronomy

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/boeing-x-37

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. How long is Boeing X-37?908 days (Mission 6, concluded November 12, 2022)
2. What is the vehicle classification?Reusable robotic spaceplane
3. What is the orbital capabilities?Demonstrates reusable space technologies and extended orbital operations
4. Why does the X-37 stay in space for so long?Its long stays, from months to years, let scientists test new space technologies and run experiments that need a lot of time in space.
5. How does the X-37 get into space?It is launched on rockets such as the Atlas V, SpaceX Falcon 9, or Falcon Heavy, and after its mission it lands back on Earth.

Orbital Test Vehicle (OTV): A designation for spacecraft designed to test technologies and operations in Earth orbit.
Scalded Derivative: A version of a design that has been enlarged or reduced in size.
Atmospheric Re-entry: The process of an object entering Earth's atmosphere from outer space.
Aerodynamic: Designed to move efficiently through the air.