Chimera architecture removes those boundaries by providing the power to conduct nearly 100 billion mathematical operations per second to perform image processing, using computational techniques used in X-ray CT scanners, deep space telescopes and spy satellites.

ENGADGET: NVIDIA intros Tegra 4i with built-in LTE, details Chimera camera tech with HDR

Skywatchers in Leeds will first have the chance to spy the space station at 1716GMT on 2 January in the south, moving towards the south east.

BBC: UK will spy Mir in night sky

This space was cool in temperature, and music you might hear in a spy movie played while projections of past Jordan sneakers danced on the walls.

FORBES: Jordan XX8 Sneaker 'Not For Everyone,' Inspired by Best Michael Jordan Quote Ever

It is launching a fleet of spy satellites and plans to test a rocket that can reenter the atmosphere--officially, for space shuttle research.

FORBES: Japan Weapons, Inc.

The Air Force uses an array of aircraft, such as the U-2 spy plane, the high-altitude Global Hawk drone or satellites and systems that can gather intelligence from space.

NPR: Military Weighs Cutbacks, Shifts In Drone Programs

While the Air Force has stated that the vehicle is meant only for conducting orbital science experiments, analysts say the X-37B is capable of much more, and could perform additional tasks such as acting as an orbital spy, sneaking up on and tampering with enemy satellites or hauling small batches of supplies to the International Space Station.

ENGADGET: Air Force X-37B space plane books additional time on orbital cruise, orders another margarita