Aalto Successfully Conducts Test Flight of Zephyr HAPS Vehicle in Kenya

Aalto has successfully conducted a test flight of its Zephyr HAPS vehicle in Kenya, connecting a 4G mobile device for the first time with a fixed-wing platform operating above 60,000 feet. The initiative, involving partners NTT Docomo and Space Compass, aims to establish commercial HAPS services in Japan by 2026, enhancing communication in underserved areas.

Aalto has successfully conducted a connectivity test for Space Compass and its partner, NTT Docomo, involving the Zephyr High Altitude Platform Station (HAPS) in Kenya. This pioneering test connected a 4G mobile device to the Zephyr during a stratospheric operation, marking a significant milestone. Aalto announced that this successful demonstration took place on March 3, where a telephone call was made from Kenya via the Zephyr to the U.K. over a local internet link, establishing the first wireless connection from fixed-wing HAPS operating above 60,000 feet.

The connectivity payload onboard the Zephyr facilitated direct communication with both the 4G mobile device and a ground gateway station in Kenya. Aalto also performed various assessments to ascertain the connectivity system’s performance, which included measuring throughput and overall signal quality. The successful demonstration was made possible by a robust regulatory environment in Kenya, where the HAPS vehicle was launched and subsequently landed.

Collaborating partners, NTT Docomo and Space Compass, are integral to the HAPS Japan consortium, which has committed to a $100 million investment in Aalto in 2024. This collaboration aims to implement commercial HAPS services in Japan, with a roadmap established by HAPS Japan, Aalto, and Airbus for a launch in 2026. This initiative is set to enhance Japan’s communications network, particularly in underserved regions, and during natural disaster responses.

Shigehiro Hori, co-CEO of Space Compass, remarked, “HAPS will play a critical role in Japan’s communications ecosystem, addressing hard-to-reach areas and supporting responses to events such as natural disasters. The demonstration of connectivity with Aalto’s Zephyr marks a strong start to 2025. This year we will work together to progress commercial timelines for entry- into-service in the Japanese market.”

In summary, Aalto’s recent successful test flight of the Zephyr HAPS in Kenya signifies an important advancement in stratospheric connectivity. This initiative, backed by significant investment from NTT Docomo and Space Compass, aims to enhance communication services in Japan by 2026. The collaboration is poised to offer solutions for remote connectivity and respond effectively to natural disasters, heralding a new era in mobile communications.

Original Source: www.satellitetoday.com