| 摘要 |
A global communications network comprises a plurality of aerial platforms or vehicles (220) deployed at an altitude in or near the stratosphere and permitted to drift in a controlled manner such that each platform (220-300) adjusts its position relative to other aerial platforms (220-300). Each aerial platform has a propulsion system (16) and control surfaces (14) and preferably includes a lighter-than-air component (10) to maintain lift in an economical manner. Each aerial platform (220-300) also includes a payload, means for communicating with other aerial platforms and a control system including location-finding equipment (700) and a processor (70) adapted for directing the platform's propulsion system (16) and control surfaces (14) to effectuate changes in the aerial platform's position relative to other aerial platforms (220-300) based on position information. The communications network provides a self-adjusting network for creating and maintaining a global communications link optionally capable of interoperating with one or more orbiting communications satellites (58) or with ground, air or sea-based equipment.
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