Hispasat, Thales Alenia Space to Put Up Flying Stratospheric Balloon for 4G/5G Telecom Apps
Madrid, Spain, September 11, 2018 ― Hispasat, the Spanish satellite communications operator, and Thales Alenia Space announced today that they are jointly working on a flying stratospheric balloon demonstration for 4G/5G telecom applications. The demonstration will test 4G/5G applications direct communications between smartphones and High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS) in October 2018 over the South of the Spanish territory.
To match the early interest of Hispasat for the innovative HAPS market, Thales Alenia Space, serving as prime contractor of the demonstration and offering its payload expertise in 4G/5G telecommunication mission is teaming with the Spanish Company Zero 2 Infinity, S.L., which will provide the balloon that will be used in the demonstration to replace the future airship that they are developing.
Carlos Espinós, CEO of Hispasat, said the new stratospheric platforms can complement geostationary satellites because they offer greater flexibility and agility in meeting communications and connectivity needs. He added balloons could have reduced environmental impact compared to satellites.
Jean Loïc Galle, CEO of Thales Alenia Space said its HAPS dedicated solution called Stratobus is neither a drone nor a satellite but a stratospheric airship that is low-cost and offers autonomous and permanent regional coverage complementing the satellite service they offer. He added the technology can be used for communications, navigation, and surveillance. Its position in the stratosphere , at an altitude of 20 kilometers, makes it an optimal position for 4G and 5G telecommunication applications, direct to end user smartphone milliseconds”.
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