The National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) in Bengaluru has successfully completed the first test of a solar-powered "pseudo-satellite". High-Altitude Pseudo Satellite Vehicle (HAPS) is a new age unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).

About High-Altitude Pseudo Satellite Vehicle (HAPS):

It is a state-of-the-art Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). This can significantly enhance India's surveillance and its capabilities in border areas.
HAPS is a still evolving technology. Its recent successful flight testing by India has placed India in the group of countries which currently have this technology.

Features of HAPS:

It can fly at a height of 18-20 km from the ground. This is almost double the altitude achieved by commercial airplanes.
HAPS has the capability to generate solar energy.
HAPS can remain in the air for months, even years. This feature brings HAPS on par with a satellite.
HAPS does not require a rocket to get into space.
HAPS operating costs are significantly lower than satellites. Which is usually located at least 200 km away from the Earth.

Applications of HAPS:

HAPS is valuable in disaster scenarios.
HAPS can also be used to provide mobile communications networks in remote areas.
HAPS can even be used in continuous monitoring of border areas to detect changes or activities.

Other important facts about HAPS:

HAPS has been developed by India's National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) as a solar powered UAV for surveillance.
HAPS provides satellite-like features.
HAPS achieved a test flight duration of 8.5 hours at Challakere, Karnataka.
24 hour flight test for power generation cycle.
The deployment target for HAPS is: 2027.
Solar powered UAVs last longer than battery powered UAVs.
HAPS can also be very useful for disaster response and communications support.
NAL focuses on technology and prototyping; Industries to handle manufacturing.

About National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL):

NAL is India's second largest aerospace company. It was established in 1959 by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research in Delhi.
The headquarters of NAL was moved to Bangalore in 1960.
The NAL firm works closely with Hindustan Aeronautical Limited (HAL), DRDO and ISRO. The NAL firm is responsible for the development of civil aircraft.