DLR's solar-powered HAP-alpha passes key vibration test, advances toward stratospheric flight
COCHSTEDT, Germany - High-altitude uncrewed aircraft can remain in the lower stratosphere for extended periods, performing a wide range of Earth observation and communications tasks – from monitoring shipping lanes and supporting disaster response to providing internet access. The German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt; DLR) has now taken an important step in the development of its own high-flying solar aircraft by successfully completing a Ground Vibration Test (GVT) on its innovative HAP-alpha high-altitude platform. Extensive ground trials took place at DLR's National Experimental Test Center for Unmanned Aircraft Systems in Cochstedt, Germany. Further tests will follow, and the first low-altitude flight trial is planned for 2026, subject to ideal weather conditions, the German Aerospace Center (DLR) reports. Continue reading original article.
The Military & Aerospace Electronics take:
21 July 2025 - "With HAP-alpha, DLR is demonstrating its comprehensive systems expertise in the complete design, development and operation of a new and innovative aircraft, incorporating all disciplines," explains DLR Executive Board Member for Aeronautics, Markus Fischer. "This illustrates our engagement in an important field of innovation, to strengthen Germany as a location for technology and business and to open up new perspectives for our public stakeholders in collaboration and knowledge exchange."
High-resolution optical cameras onboard HAP-alpha will enable detailed Earth observation from the stratosphere. These sensors are ideal for applications such as agricultural monitoring, disaster response, and infrastructure inspection, offering persistent coverage of targeted regions.
Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) systems are being considered for deployment on HAP-alpha to provide imaging capabilities in all weather conditions and during both day and night. This makes the platform valuable for continuous terrain monitoring, maritime surveillance, and environmental change detection.
Atmospheric and environmental sensors could be used to collect data on climate-related variables such as temperature, gas concentrations, and aerosols in the upper atmosphere. These instruments support scientific research and environmental monitoring missions at high altitudes.
Communication payloads will allow HAP-alpha to serve as a high-altitude relay station. Potential applications include extending wireless coverage to remote areas, supporting emergency communications, and testing advanced technologies such as 5G and quantum communications.
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Jamie Whitney, Senior Editor
Military + Aerospace Electronics
