U.K.-based Astigan Ltd and the Ordnance Survey of the U.K. are developing a high-flying cartography tool. The A3 high-altitude pseudo satellite (HAPS) is an unmanned, 149 kg solar-powered aircraft with a 38 m wingspan The solar-powered Astigan A3 platform being assembled on the runway. Source: Astigancapable of flying at an altitude of 20,422 m for up to 90 days.

The A3 HAPS has already safely completed eight full-scale flights, and when fully operational will document data over wider areas than conventional aerial imagery systems can cover. The mobile map maker is expected to contribute to geospatial and cartographic data collection by merging the continuous monitoring functions of a satellite with the high-resolution capabilities of an aircraft.

The A3 will be able to quickly and inexpensively monitor one area for weeks at a time. This will allow it to help update existing maps and enhance climate and environmental monitoring, deliver warnings and support communications during natural disasters, and address land management and urbanization challenges. The platform can carry a range of sophisticated sensors to meet mission needs and is compatible with the latest CubeSat technology.

Following a final flight test in 2020, the A3 HAPS will be fully operational.