GPS World

Tag: Mira Aerospace

  • UAVOS introduces stratospheric Earth observation payload after successful flight tests

    UAVOS introduces stratospheric Earth observation payload after successful flight tests

    UAVOS has completed successful flight testing of its optoelectronic, gyro‑stabilized payload onboard device (POD), integrated into the HAPS ApusNeo 18. The ApusNeo 18 is a solar‑powered high‑altitude pseudo‑satellite developed as part of a joint project with Mira Aerospace.

    Using steerable high-resolution cameras, the system demonstrated coverage of 472 km of electro‑optical imagery with a ground sampling distance of 69 cm per pixel, as well as infrared imagery at 480 cm per pixel, from an altitude of 15,000 m. The camera’s footprint covered 53.9 km², while its steerability allowed access to any point within a 54.5 x 12.3 km area at any time.

    Designed specifically for stratospheric operations, the POD significantly enhances the intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities of HAPS platforms. 

    The POD weighs 3.6 kg and features a compact form factor measuring 845 mm (length) × 128 mm (width) × 142 mm (height). It is equipped with an onboard computer for data processing and a UAVOS radio modem with a 10 W amplifier, enabling high‑throughput data transmission to the ground control station.

    To ensure reliable high-altitude performance, the POD incorporates an integrated heating and cooling system that maintains optimal operating conditions for onboard sensors. It also includes a foldable, servo‑driven antenna that can be stowed  in a safe position when required.

    Additionally, the mechanical design enables video and photo acquisition with roll stabilization of up to ±50 degrees, expanding operational flexibility and imaging performance.

    “The Payload Onboard Device (POD) has already been successfully tested for wildfire monitoring in Spain. When integrated with the HAPS ApusNeo 18, which is capable of surveying hundreds of kilometres in a single flight, the system delivers a comprehensive situational picture, improving operational efficiency, reducing costs, and increasing overall mission effectiveness,” said Aliaksei Stratsilatau, founder and CEO of UAVOS.

  • UAVOS partnership to advance HAPS technology for high-altitude missions

    UAVOS partnership to advance HAPS technology for high-altitude missions

    UAVOS has successfully completed of a test flight of Mira Aerospace’s high-altitude pseudo-satellite (HAPS) ApusNeo 18, with UAVOS providing full engineering and technical support. A key objective of the flight was to evaluate the jointly developed optoelectronic, gyro-stabilized aircraft payload onboard device (POD) by obtaining imagery from altitudes between 3,000 and 12,000 meters.

    During the mission, the POD captured high-resolution imagery with precise geolocation data from an altitude of 12,000 meters, achieving a Ground Sample Distance (GSD) of up to two meters. The test took place in Abu Dhabi, UAE, and lasted continuously for 48 hours.

    “The data-relay station trials were conducted in preparation for upcoming commercial flights in Europe, planned for the coming months,” Aliaksei said.

    The optoelectronic gyro-stabilized aircraft POD is equipped with an innovative automatic temperature control system for  heating and cooling  electronic modules, ensuring reliable operation in the stratosphere at temperatures as low as -70°C under rarefied air conditions.

    The system also provides radio communication at distances exceeding 100 km. The gimbal’s optical unit allows observation within a ±90°C range with high-precision angular positioning. The payload housing features an aerodynamically optimized design, and the total payload weight is 3.6 kg.

    “The successful cooperation with Mira Aerospace reflects our commitment to continuously advancing the capabilities of both companies,” said Aliaksei Stratsilatau, founder and CEO of UAVOS. “We also continue to work toward our ultimate goal of leveraging the HAPS platform for multiple applications, including mobile connectivity, border monitoring, mapping, forest fire detection, and emergency response.”

    To extend the HAPS operational range, the test flight also incorporated a data-relay network based on ground modem repeaters. Each repeater is capable of providing a coverage area of up to 200 km.

    “The data-relay station trials were conducted in preparation for upcoming commercial flights in Europe, planned for the coming months,” Aliaksei said.