When comparing a "pseudo-satellite" to a High-Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) drone such as the Reaper, the cost of surveillance is significantly reduced. A HAPS-class vehicle costs less than $500 per hour to operate, while a USAF Reaper-class drone costs over $3500 per hour.
Unmanned aircraft operating in the stratosphere at altitudes of around 65,000 feet or higher are known as high-altitude pseudo-satellites. These solar-powered aircraft are intended to bridge the gap between traditional satellites in space and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) operating at lower altitudes. These long-endurance flights, which can last for months or even years while a satellite remains stationary, can provide flexible alternatives for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), removing the limitations of satellite performance and capabilities.
Compared to traditional satellites, which are more difficult to launch, HAPS are much cheaper to develop and launch. Beyond Line of Sight (BLOS) technology allows remote control of these vehicles. HAPS are mainly used for telecommunications and remote sensing applications in the military and commercial sectors.
According to research by the European Space Agency, HAPS can create "secure communication bubbles" to provide "emergency communications and broadband internet services" for major events such as the Olympics.
How Can the Military Benefit From High-Altitude Pseudo-Satellites?
Equipped with advanced sensors and high-resolution optical and infrared cameras, these airborne platforms are suitable for missions requiring round-the-clock coverage, border patrol, target tracking, maritime surveillance and navigation, and even missile detection.