In a groundbreaking advancement in aerospace technology, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) - National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) between 23 January and 2 February, 2024, conducted successful tests on a High Altitude Pseudo-Satellite (HAPS) at the aeronautical test range at Challakere, marking a significant milestone in the field of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
During the trial, the sub-scale model, which boasts a wingspan of 12 meters, achieved a flight duration of eight and a half hours while cruising at an altitude of 3 kilometres above mean sea level. The full-scale prototype is expected to be ready by 2027.
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This development not only highlights India's growing capabilities in high-altitude aerospace technology but also sets the stage for innovative applications across telecommunications, environmental monitoring, disaster management, and beyond.
Q: What is High Altitude Pseudo-Satellite (HAPS)?
The High Altitude Pseudo-Satellite (HAPS) is a solar-powered unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). They were conceptualized in the 1990s to operate in the stratosphere about 20 kilometres above ground. These do not require a rocket to launch. They are powered by solar energy and rechargeable batteries.
The full-scale version is designed to feature a wingspan of approximately 30 meters and a weight of 150 kg. It will operate as a slow-flying aircraft, maintaining speeds between 80-100 km per hour. Despite its modest pace, it will have the capability to remain airborne for up to 90 days, cruising at altitudes ranging from 17-20 km. Additionally, it will have the capacity to carry payloads of up to 15 kg.
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Q: What are the benefits of HAPS?
HAPS are called pseudo-satellites because they can conduct the operations of a satellite. However, unlike a satellite which has a predetermined path, HAPS can be easily moved to a location. The costs of building, launching and operating a single HAPS are comparatively lower than satellites.
HAPS also enable coverage of very large areas (around 500 km diameter). They can also be linked to multiple ground stations simultaneously. Since they operate closer to the ground, they allow greater two-way transmission speeds and lower latency.
Furthermore, HAPS can undergo refurbishment and reutilization, with their payloads reconfigured periodically. A study conducted in 2017, which compared the effectiveness of a constellation of Low Earth Orbit satellites with HAPS platforms for remote sensing purposes, revealed that due to their capability to maintain a prolonged presence over a specific area, these high-altitude drones offer a distinct advantage in revisiting expansive zones with heightened predictability and accuracy.
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Q: What are the applications of HAPS?
HAPS offer versatile intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, serving as valuable assets in various applications.
Their primary uses lie in telecommunications and remote sensing, catering to both civilian and military needs. HAPS excel in providing communication services in remote regions lacking traditional infrastructure, or in deep seas environments.
Additionally, they play pivotal roles in disaster relief efforts, search and rescue missions (SAR), smart city management, and precision agriculture.
According to a study conducted by the European Space Agency, HAPS have the potential to deliver "emergency communications and broadband internet services" during major events such as the Olympics, establishing secure communication bubbles to ensure seamless connectivity.
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