Communications Base Station 20km Above Ground... SoftBank to Begin Testing in August

SoftBank plans to launch mobile communication base stations in the stratosphere, approximately 20km above ground, to expand terrestrial coverage. These stations will provide faster data transmission than low Earth orbit satellites due to their closer proximity. Utilizing helium buoyancy, the HAPS (High Altitude Platform Station) test involves a 65-meter aircraft carrying voice calls, messaging, and data capabilities. The test, using a U.S.-based aircraft, aims to validate stable atmospheric conditions at this altitude, where flights can maintain precision within 1km for over 88 hours. SoftBank has completed 12-day trials covering 10,000km and installed ground gateways in Goto Prefecture to link HAPS with terrestrial networks. Testing locations will include areas prone to undersea earthquakes and tsunami risks, with results expected by late August.