The Boeing X-37B, an unmanned, reusable spaceplane, made its first orbital test flight in April 2010. Operated by the US Space Force, its missions remain highly classified, contributing to its air of mystery. The X-37B represents the cutting edge of space technology and is a symbol of the militarization of space.

The X-37B's existence has spurred considerable speculation in science fiction and poetry, representing the shadowy frontier of space and the potential for a new kind of conflict beyond the atmosphere. It has become a symbol for the next frontier of military technology and the mystery of classified space programs. Writers often use it as a metaphor for the unknown and the government's hidden hand.