Stratospheric communication platforms as an alternative for space program
Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology
ISSN: 0002-2667
Article publication date: 21 March 2011
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine the potential applications of stratospheric communication platforms (SCP), which have been recently introduced as an alternative for satellite communications.
Design/methodology/approach
Various applications, solutions and services are planned by using aircraft or airship SCP, which could be classified as digital narrowband or broadband, depending on the broadband required. The platforms as base stations can provide service for fixed and mobile applications, with commercial and military solutions. Subscribers will use uplink to the platform for transmitting and receiving information, where onboard SCP switching devices will downlink to the ground station and route traffic directly to other subscribers within the same platform coverage, to another platform via optical inter‐platform links, trough heterogeneous networks including satellite or to the terrestrial telecommunications network. Each SCP can deploy an antenna for large coverage area or a multibeam antenna capable of projecting numerous spot beams within its potential coverage area.
Findings
This paper outlines the findings of fixed and mobile applications, features, testing and some specific development programs of SCP using aircraft solutions, such as SkyTower and airship solutions, such as CRL/TAO/NAL.
Research limitations/implications
Particular consideration is given to the use of SCP for delivery of future broadband, broadcast and multimedia wireless communications including research for new communication, navigation and surveillance (CNS) implications.
Practical implications
SCP will provide communication facilities that can exploit the best features for both terrestrial and satellite schemes.
Originality/value
Emerging solutions of voice, data and video over IP are offered by SCPs operating in the stratosphere at altitudes of up to 25 km.
Keywords
Citation
Ilcev, S.D. (2011), "Stratospheric communication platforms as an alternative for space program", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 83 No. 2, pp. 105-111. https://doi.org/10.1108/00022661111120999
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2011, Emerald Group Publishing Limited