The future of communication lies in the coverage of a 5G signal that will be able to transmit large amounts of data. Most countries have a network of terrestrial transmitters similar to the ones we know now. But let's look at other alternatives. One was presented by a pair of British companies based in the Cambridge area.
They created a system concept inspired by special internet balloons operated by Alphabet and the Starlink project by Elon Musk. In their project, both companies envisage a squadron of special drones that would communicate with the surface and at the same time send a 5G signal. These would be special hydrogen-powered drones that could stay in the air for 9 days without the need to refuel. Cambridge's stratospheric platforms and consultants say they could cover the entire UK with about 60 drones. The authors of the project argue that they work closely with several operators. They are probably furthest away in negotiations with Deutsche Telekom, which plans to test this technology in rural southern Germany in 2024.
Drones should fly at an altitude of approximately 20,000 meters, ie outside the flight levels of normal air traffic. The whole project is still in the concept stage and not a single drone has yet seen the light of day. The most developed company is Cambridge Consultants, which is working on a special antenna that would be used by drones. They claim to have successfully tested the transmission of a lower bandwidth signal from an aircraft flying at a lower altitude.
But for now, the required drone is still on the drawing board and would have to be tested with an emission-free hydrogen fuel cell and a 5G antenna on board. So far, the biggest challenge could be funding. Despite Deutsche Telekom's involvement, both British companies need more money if they are to offer stratospheric connections within four years.
Google is running a similar project with its Loon project, which aims to bring wireless broadband to remote locations using high-energy solar balloons. Users would gain a download speed of approximately 100 Mbps - allowing them to download a typical 4 Gigabyte movie in less than six minutes. This solution could suit companies that want to quickly connect machines, such as autonomous trucks moving in and out of a mine.
We should consider whether such a project would be economically viable and whether the operating revenues could cover the initial costs as well as the operation of the entire system.
What do you think about such a project? Does it ha