H2APS, hydrogen-powered pseudo-satellite technology
The consortium completes trials on the 15-meter long float, elevating the technology's maturity level to TRL4
The main objective of the H2APS (Unmanned Hydrogen High Altitude Autonomous Pseudo Satellite) project is to demonstrate the technological concept, up to TRL4, of developing an autonomous hybrid lighter-than-air aircraft using hydrogen as a buoyancy system and as fuel for the powertrain. This combines instantaneous solar production with fuel cell electricity generation, battery and ultracapacitor support, and the intelligent management of onboard energy and hydrogen.
H2APS represents the practical application of what was learned in 6G Integration 3 and 4. The consortium, formed by CiTD, Prosix Engineering, Protio Power, and Edair Technologies, is building a 15-meter prototype with the goal of raising the technology to TRL4 (Technology Readiness Level 4). Edairtec has participated in the investigation of operational scenarios and profiles for power, consumption, and navigation. It is also implementing the control, energy management, and navigation systems and executing the tests on a propulsion and hydrogen energization test rig.
Hydrogen as lift and fuel
H2APS represents a great advance in pseudo-satellite technology thanks to the potential cost savings compared to conventional HAPS. Its hybrid generation technology and its ballonet system, developed during Integration 4, enable efficient and sustainable flight.
The conducted tests attest to positive results that are guiding the development toward functional prototypes. The project, executed thanks to the funding from the CDTI and the Ministry of Science and Innovation, makes European strategic autonomy in telecommunications possible.
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The project, divided into Integration 6G 3 and Integration 6G 4, theoretically develops a pseudo-satellite system based on hydrogen float aircraft
Project's conclutions
"EDAIR has advanced in the development of design and sizing processes for HAPS-type platforms. Knowledge has been acquired at the level of calculating aircraft characteristics and the minimum requirements for the development of these types of platforms.
Knowledge has also been acquired in the area of embedded system design development, with special emphasis on the integration of electric power banks with the motorization systems, as well as the development of efficient control and navigation systems for LTA (Lighter-Than-Air) platforms.
The activities carried out represent a first step in EDAIR's research line for this type of aircraft, reaching a TRL 4-5 in the technologies developed. The goal is to develop future prototypes where these technologies can be integrated and the functionality of the development carried out throughout the project can be validated with field tests."
- Alfonso Torrelo, H2APS Project Manager
Project financed by the CDTI and the Next Generation EU Funds of the European Union.
