HAPS OBSERVATORY IN STRATOSPHERE

摘要

This paper is a follow-up to the IAC2017 "Astronomy observatory in Stratosphere" presentation. It presents the continuous effort and achievements of developing our HAPS. During last year, we have expanded the portfolio of the possible uses of our HAPS from astronomy to telecommunication, research and other areas. A breadboard was developed and successfully tested incl. all key technologies - namely our novel 3D printed and scalable pressure-difference balloon structure, power subsystem and feedback-controlled pressure regulation based on two barometric sensors, with one of them being powered wirelessly from outside of the balloon, without requiring hermetic cable feedthroughs. The main advantage over existing solutions is that unlike gas-filled balloons, the buoyancy is generated by using electricity and not by a limited gas supply. It should thus allow for use over extended periods of time. It also describes the opportunity provided by ESA Aeolus as a data source for position control of our HAPS. Next year, it is foreseen to perform a maiden flight of the platform.