26. February 2026
Uavos Unveils Breakthrough Stratospheric Payload Capabilities After Historic High-Altitude Flight Tests

UAVOS Unveils Stratospheric Earth Observation Payload After Successful High-Altitude Flight Tests
The UAVOS optoelectronic, gyrostabilized Payload Onboard Device (POD) has successfully tested its capabilities onboard the HAPS ApusNeo 18, a solar-powered high-altitude pseudosatellite developed in collaboration with Mira Aerospace. This milestone marks a significant advancement in integrating advanced Earth observation capabilities into stratospheric platforms.
The POD, weighing 3.6 kg and measuring 845 mm (length) × 128 mm (width) × 142 mm (height), is designed to enhance the intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities of HAPS platforms with its compact form factor and foldable, servodriven antenna.
During its recent flight tests, the POD demonstrated remarkable performance, capturing high-resolution electrooptical imagery with a ground sampling distance of 69 cm per pixel, as well as infrared imagery at 480 cm per pixel. The system successfully covered an area of 472 km², providing comprehensive coverage of a specific region and access to any point within a 54.5 x 12.3 km area at any time.
The POD’s advanced features include an onboard computer for data processing, a UAVOS radio modem with a 10 W amplifier, and a high-throughput data transmission system that enables seamless communication with the ground control station. This integrated heating and cooling system maintains optimal operating conditions for onboard sensors, ensuring reliable performance in extreme environments.
One of the most significant advantages of the POD is its ability to provide video and photo acquisition with roll stabilization of up to ±50 degrees. This expanded operational flexibility and imaging performance enable mission planners to capture high-quality data in various environmental conditions, such as wildfire monitoring in Spain. The system delivers a comprehensive situational picture, improving operational efficiency, reducing costs, and increasing overall mission effectiveness.
The successful testing of the POD represents a significant breakthrough in stratospheric Earth observation. By leveraging the benefits of high-altitude platforms, UAVOS has created a powerful tool for mission planners, providing unparalleled coverage and flexibility.
The potential applications of this technology are vast, ranging from environmental monitoring to disaster response, border surveillance, and security operations. The POD’s advanced capabilities make it an attractive solution for organizations seeking to enhance their ISR capabilities in challenging environments.
As the demand for high-altitude platforms continues to grow, UAVOS is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend. With its cutting-edge technology and commitment to innovation, the company is poised to revolutionize the way we observe and understand our planet. The successful testing of the POD onboard the HAPS ApusNeo 18 marks a significant milestone in the development of stratospheric Earth observation capabilities, with far-reaching implications for various industries.
The integration of the POD with the HAPS ApusNeo 18 represents a significant advancement in stratospheric Earth observation, providing organizations with a powerful tool for mission planning. The system’s advanced features and capabilities make it an attractive solution for various applications, from environmental monitoring to security operations. As this technology continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the future of Earth observation will be shaped by platforms like the HAPS ApusNeo 18 and its cutting-edge Payload Onboard Device.
UAVOS’s innovative solution has the potential to transform various industries, from environmental monitoring to security operations. The company’s commitment to innovation and its cutting-edge technology make it well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for high-altitude platforms. As the capabilities of platforms like the HAPS ApusNeo 18 continue to evolve, organizations can expect significant benefits from integrating advanced Earth observation solutions into their operations.