HIGH ALTITUDE CELLULAR COMMUNICATION SYSTEM PLATFORM

摘要

A high altitude cellular communications system platform utilizing a multi-beam array antenna having an array of elements. A multi-beam array antenna and associated circuitry are mounted on a high altitude atmospheric/stratospheric platform positioned up to 150 kilometers high. A cellular communications processor controls setup and tear down of wireless communication links or calls with subscriber's personal communication devices. Vertical broadcasting provides sharp antenna radiation pattern boundaries between cells allowing for both high inter-cell resolution and small cell size. In an alternative embodiment, the cellular communications processor is located on the ground and communicates with the high altitude platform via a communications link. The system can operate independently or in conjunction with ground based cellular systems and Low Earth Orbit Satellite systems using common personal communication devices.