PUBLISHER: Aviation & Defense Market Reports (A&D) | PRODUCT CODE: 1383248
PUBLISHER: Aviation & Defense Market Reports (A&D) | PRODUCT CODE: 1383248
High Altitude Pseudo Satellites (HAPS) are a type of aerial vehicle that operates at much higher altitudes than traditional aircraft but at lower altitudes than traditional satellites. They are intended to serve as long-duration, stationary, or near-stationary platforms in the stratosphere, typically at altitudes ranging from 17 to 22 kilometers (11 to 14 miles).
Communication, remote sensing, surveillance, environmental monitoring, disaster management, and research are all possible uses for HAPS. They can serve as communication signal relay stations, collect data over large areas, and provide consistent coverage of specific regions. HAPS has several advantages over traditional satellites. They can be deployed relatively quickly and cheaply.
They also have the advantage of being able to hover over a specific location for an extended period, which is useful for applications such as communication coverage or disaster monitoring.
The majority of HAPS are solar-powered. They are outfitted with solar panels, which power the onboard systems and propulsion mechanisms. They generate electricity from the sun during the day and store excess energy in batteries for use at night. HAPS is intended to maintain a relatively stationary position in the sky, which is particularly useful for communication. To adjust their position and counteract wind and atmospheric conditions, they use various propulsion systems such as electric thrusters or propellers.
HAPS can transport a wide range of payloads, such as communication transponders, cameras, sensors, and other data collection instruments. Because of their high altitude and stable position, they can provide continuous data and observations. HAPS has numerous applications. They can, for example, be used to provide internet access to remote or underserved areas, monitor agricultural activities, track wildlife, monitor pollution, and aid in disaster response by providing real-time imagery and communication services.
HAPS technology faces regulatory framework, air traffic management, and the development of efficient and reliable propulsion systems challenges. A technical challenge is also balancing the need for energy-efficient propulsion while maintaining station-keeping capabilities. HAPS projects are being worked on by several companies and organizations. Airbus' Zephyr, AeroVironment's Global Observer, Google's Project Loon (focused on providing internet access to remote areas), and various space agency and university research initiatives are among them.