Harnessing the latest in solar, battery, lightweight composite material and avionic technology, high altitude platform station (HAPS) systems potentially offer new levels of communications and observation capabilities. Operating at around 20km above the Earth – typically in balloon, airship or fixed-wing aircraft form – they can beat the connectivity, coverage and performance of terrestrial towers and satellites, particularly in remote parts of the world.

HAPS' innovative infrastructure is poised to bring internet access to over 2.6 billion people in 100 countries without connectivity, creating opportunities for education and economic growth.

In addition to improving digital inclusion, HAPS are quick to deploy so could be of vital use in emergency situations. Read the full article at: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2024/06/top-10-emerging-technologies-of-2024-impact-world/