Connecting the World from the Stratosphere with HAPS

HAPS (High Altitude Platform Stations) operate from the stratosphere, approximately 20 kilometers above Earth. In the form of balloons, airships, or fixed-wing aircraft, they provide a stable platform for observation and communication and can operate for months. Advances in solar panel technology, along with expanded frequency bands and new aviation standards, make HAPS viable in the short term. They can offer connectivity, coverage, and performance improvements that neither satellites nor ground towers can match, especially in challenging terrains like mountains, forests, or deserts. HAPS provide enhanced and long-term connectivity and communication in remote and underserved areas.

ONE-THIRD OF THE WORLD’S POPULATION IS OFFLINE

About one-third of people worldwide are still offline, according to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), with women and the elderly being disproportionately affected. A key component to addressing this challenge is better infrastructure, as access to the connected world serves as a bridge to the future, creating paths to prosperity and new educational opportunities. HAPS can improve connectivity for communities underserved by traditional communication infrastructure, especially in remote areas.

In addition to providing internet access, these adaptable platforms can play an important role in various critical applications, from supporting disaster management to improving broadband coverage and environmental monitoring. The ability of HAPS to be rapidly deployed and adapt to changing conditions can make them invaluable in emergency management, where timely information and communications can save lives.

HOW HAPS WORK

HAPS can be balloons, airships, or fixed-wing aircraft. They are designed to remain in a fixed position in the sky for long periods. Built with lightweight and durable composite materials, they use highly efficient solar panels to capture energy during the day and high-density batteries to operate at night.

They are launched from a ground base and navigate to the operational altitude in the stratosphere. Once in position, they use autonomous navigation systems to maintain the station’s position. HAPS are equipped with advanced antennas and communication systems and can establish communication links with ground towers, satellites, and end-user devices.

In addition to providing internet access, functioning as a data relay point, HAPS are equipped with sensors that can monitor the environment, collecting data on weather, pollution, and other parameters. In emergencies, they can be rapidly deployed to restore communications and provide critical data.

STARLINK X HAPS

For those unfamiliar, Starlink is SpaceX’s innovative high-speed internet solution, created by Elon Musk. It promises to offer global internet coverage through a network of thousands of small satellites in low Earth orbit. The main disadvantages of Starlink compared to the HAPS solution are slightly higher latency and higher satellite launch and maintenance costs.

The Starlink solution is more suitable for wide and global coverage, while HAPS are more effective for local coverage and rapid deployment in specific situations. However, HAPS have limitations in terms of continuous global coverage and rely on regulations that are still under development.

INVESTMENTS AND REGULATIONS

Investment in HAPS by aerospace engineering leaders has led to advances in materials, propulsion systems, and solar cell technology. HAPS are now economically viable for commercial and real-world deployment. The market size was valued at $783.3 million in 2023 and is expected to grow at an annual rate of 10.4% from 2023 to 2033. Industry examples include Airbus Zephyr, Thales’ Stratobus projects, and Boeing’s Aurora.

However, HAPS, operating at stratospheric altitudes for extended periods, still lack specific regulations that are under development and require international alignment. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is actively discussing new policies and guidelines to enable the responsible use of HAPS.