Airbus Zephyr 8

The Airbus Zephyr 8, developed by Airbus SAS, is a solar‑powered high‑altitude pseudo‑satellite (HAPS) that builds on more than a decade of research into unmanned aerial systems capable of persistent, stratospheric flight. The program originated in the early 2010s as an evolution of the original Zephyr concept, which first demonstrated long‑duration flights in 2010 and set a world record for endurance in 2015. Zephyr 8 incorporates a 25‑meter wingspan, lightweight composite airframe, and an array of high‑efficiency solar cells that charge lithium‑sulphur batteries, enabling the aircraft to stay aloft for up to 14 days without refuelling.

Key features include autonomous navigation, a modular payload bay that can carry communications, Earth‑observation, or surveillance equipment, and a fully electric propulsion system that produces only a few kilograms of thrust. Its ability to operate at altitudes of 20 km places it above commercial air traffic and most weather, providing a persistent platform that rivals small satellites at a fraction of the cost.

The Zephyr 8 is significant because it demonstrates a viable alternative to satellite constellations for providing continuous coverage, opening new possibilities for remote‑sensing, disaster monitoring, and connectivity in underserved regions while reducing launch waste and expense.