Sceye HAPS: Unleashing the potential of the stratosphere

Sceye, a US-based material science company and manufacturer of High-Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS), has announced that it reached the stratosphere with the aim of demonstrating the ability to remain over an operational area for months at a time, powered only by renewable energy sources.

The HAPS test launch took place on June 14 from Sceye's hangar at Roswell International Airport and was made using only solar and battery power. The test has the potential to expand internet access to remote populations, monitor greenhouse gas emissions down to individual emitters, and detect natural disasters as they begin.

Sceye also announced there would be another four test launches in 2022.

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"Today’s test flight holds extraordinary potential for stratospheric discovery," said Sceye founder and CEO, Mikkel Vestergaard Frandsen.

"By maintaining position in the stratosphere for extended periods of time, we can begin realising the promises of the stratosphere for life on Earth. Universal internet access, methane monitoring, and wildfire detection are all at our fingertips."

The test launch had three objectives: to test the durability and performance of renewable power systems in the stratosphere; to demonstrate the HAPS' ability to remain over an area of operation; and to maintain a constant float altitude in the stratosphere.

Sceye's HAPS is designed in the form of an enhanced balloon and can lift a range of payloads for connectivity, earth observation, and scientific research. The hull fabric is designed to withstand the extreme environment of the stratosphere and is optimised for strength, helium retention, and thermal management. 

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Solar panels collect energy throughout the day and high-performance batteries have enough storage to last until sunrise when the power loop begins again.

"We are thrilled to see years of research and development culminating in this milestone moment," said David Kim, Sceye’s Chief Technology Officer. "It is the very best application of material science pushing the boundaries of near space."

Chief of Mission Operations, Stephanie Luongo, said, "This launch is the second of six in our test program this year intended to verify payload and automated flight while ensuring safe operations. We’re excited to learn more from upcoming flight tests planned for late summer and fall."

In October 2021, Sceye became the first company to connect a Massive MIMO antenna with 3D beamforming from the stratosphere directly to smartphones on the ground over a distance of 140 km (87 miles) - a world record in Open RAN.

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In March 2022, the company successfully validated its automated flight software which increases the HAPS' reliability during the most critical phases of flight - the launch and ascent.

Sceye has also partnered with the US Environmental Protection Agency, New Mexico Economic Development Department, and New Mexico Environment Department on a five-year study to monitor air quality in the State of New Mexico. Sceye’s HAPS will track methane emissions with a sub 1-m resolution, allowing them to determine pollution levels as well as pinpoint individual emitters.

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