
At the “Connecting the World from the Skies” conference, the panel titled “Communication on the Edge of Space” (watch from 06:08:00 to 07:07:00) showcased the transformative possibilities of High-Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS) and near-space technologies. Operating in the stratosphere, these innovative platforms are shaping the future of global connectivity by complementing satellites and terrestrial networks.
A significant milestone for the HAPS industry came at the World Radiocommunication Conference 2023 (WRC-23), where operators gained access to crucial spectrum bands, solidifying HAPS as a key enabler for next-generation networks. This breakthrough, coupled with its inclusion in the World Economic Forum’s Top 10 Emerging Technologies of 2024, underscores the growing recognition of HAPS as a game-changing solution.
Moderated by Prof. Mohamed-Slim Alouini, Holder of the UNESCO Chair of “Education to Connect the Unconnected” at KAUST, the panel brought together HAPS Alliance voices, experts from academia and industry, to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the sector. HAPS Alliance panelists included:
- Halim Yanikomeroglu, Chancellor’s Professor, Carleton University
- Richard Deakin, CEO, Stratospheric Platforms Limited (SPL)
- Shiro Fukumoto, Director and Head of Regulatory Development, SoftBank Corp.
The panelists explored the development of reliable, unmanned connectivity systems in near space, identified emerging market opportunities, and addressed the critical role HAPS could play in achieving global, ubiquitous connectivity—a key aspiration of 6G networks and beyond.
Unlocking the Near-Space Frontier
HAPS platforms operate in the near-space region (the upper troposphere and the stratosphere), neither orbital nor terrestrial, maintain a quasi-stationary position that bridges terrestrial and satellite networks.
As Prof. Alouini explained, HAPS hold unique advantages for areas with uneven population density. Dense urban areas rely on terrestrial networks, while satellites increasingly serve remote regions. The “in-between” zones—suburban and semi-urban areas—are ideally suited for HAPS. These platforms also offer a sustainable solution to alleviate network congestion in urban areas during peak usage periods.
Beyond Connectivity: Versatile Applications of HAPS
While extending connectivity to underserved regions remains a core focus, HAPS technologies offer a range of applications across industries:
- Surveillance and Reconnaissance: Near-space platforms provide enhanced intelligence-gathering and monitoring capabilities, crucial for urban environments and large-scale events like Hajj in Saudi Arabia.
- Environmental and Traffic Monitoring: HAPS deliver real-time data on natural disasters, climate conditions, and urban traffic, enabling proactive responses.
- Navigation and Localization: These platforms improve positioning systems in remote and densely populated areas alike.
- Satellite Integration: Acting as efficient relays, HAPS extend satellite coverage, facilitating seamless data transfer and improved service reliability.
Technological Innovations Driving the HAPS Ecosystem
The industry’s progress is fueled by remarkable advancements in platform design and operational capability, as highlighted by the panelists:
- Stratospheric Platforms Limited (SPL): CEO Richard Deakin introduced SPL’s hydrogen-powered flying power station, capable of generating 100 kilowatts of energy. This innovation supports antenna arrays that can deliver direct-to-handset connectivity across an area of 15,000 square kilometers with high-speed performance.
- Pioneering Connectivity Tests: The successful demonstrations of 4G and 5G connectivity from the stratosphere, including a groundbreaking trial in Saudi Arabia, signify a major leap forward. These tests highlight the commercial viability and scalability of HAPS technologies.
A Vision for the Future of HAPS
As Professor Halim Yanikomeroglu concluded, the true potential of HAPS lies in its diverse applications beyond telecommunications. From creating sustainable network architectures to enabling advanced surveillance and environmental monitoring, HAPS represents a pivotal step toward a smarter, more connected future.
While challenges such as endurance, power generation, and reliability remain, the progress achieved thus far is a testament to the innovation driving this field. Through collaboration among academia, industry, and governments, HAPS has the potential to become an integral part of global connectivity solutions by the 2030s.
The journey to realizing the full promise of HAPS is well underway. With continued innovation and strategic cooperation, these platforms are set to redefine what’s possible in telecommunications and beyond, bridging the gap between today’s connectivity limitations and tomorrow’s aspirations.
How to Get Involved
Join the HAPS Alliance to gain the research, resources, and support needed to thrive in the dynamic world of stratospheric telecommunications. All companies interested in the HAPS ecosystem are encouraged to become HAPS Alliance members. Alliance membership levels, Principal, General, and Supporter, are open to organizations in any industry sector and have access to member-only meetings. Principal and General members have the opportunity to become involved in various membership initiatives, including working groups and collaboration with other HAPS Alliance members to work on technology components and use cases for enabling a smarter world.