Analysis and Study of HAPS from an Aerospace Perspective: Applications and Sensors
Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV) · 2024 · Final grade: 9.5/10
Abstract
The purpose of this document is to conduct an analysis of HAPS (High Altitude Pseudo-Satellites) from an aerospace perspective, examining the aircraft, propulsion, navigation, stratports (airports designed for HAPS), sensors and potential applications. To this end, the study reviews EUROCONTROL’s Concepts of Operations (ConOps) for the upper airspace together with an assessment of the atmospheric environment. The different HAPS categories are described, and technologies in those fields are analysed and proposed for each configuration. A real-world case study is also included: the Fuerteventura stratport, a world-leading project implementing this technology that merges the benefits of satellites and drones and is poised to shape the future of many industries.
Table of contents
1. Introduction
- 1.1. Purpose of the document
- 1.2. Rationale
- 1.3. Scope and limitations
- 1.4. Document structure
2. Conceptual framework and state of the art of HAPS
- 2.1. Definitions and terminology
- 2.2. Historical evolution
2.3. Relevant programs and prototypes
- 2.3.1. Fixed-wing HAPS (HTA)
- 2.3.2. Balloon and airship HAPS (LTA)
- 2.4. Comparison of representative platforms
3. European operational and regulatory environment
- 3.1. Atmospheric analysis and impact
- 3.2. Upper European airspace
- 3.3. Stakeholders and responsibilities
- 3.4. EASA regulation
- 3.5. Authorization procedures
- 3.6. Operational safety, contingency plans and non-nominal events
4. HAPS platforms: architecture and systems
- 4.1. Architecture (LTA / HTA, fuselage, wings)
- 4.2. Power system (management, sizing, thermal)
- 4.3. Propulsion (types, performance)
- 4.4. Navigation (GNSS, INS, flight control)
5. Ground infrastructure: stratports
- 5.1. Definition and classification
- 5.2. Technical requirements and selection
- 5.3. Case study: Fuerteventura stratport
6. Applications and market
- 6.1. Telecommunications infrastructure
- 6.2. 4G/5G integration and connectivity
- 6.3. Earth observation and surveillance
- 6.4. Atmospheric and climate research
- 6.5. Emerging use cases
- 6.6. Ethics and privacy
- 6.7. Market and economic viability
7. Conclusions
- 7.1. Degree of achievement of objectives
- 7.2. Synthesis of key conclusions
- 7.3. Limitations
- 7.4. Socioeconomic and environmental implications