Definition
What Is Near Space?
Near Space is the area between airspace and outer space—65,000 to 325,000 feet above sea level. For a frame of reference, 100,000 feet above sea level is the height of 80 Empire State Buildings. (Click here for Wikipedia definition.)
Near Space provides several clear benefits over airspace and outer space.
- Near Space avoids the traffic and vulnerability found in commercial airspace.
- Near Space avoids the natural interference found in outer space.
- Near Space provides higher sensor resolution and accuracy than from space.
- Near Space enables faster response—new vehicle launches take hours vs. months.
- Near Space is accessible, making it easier to repair, change or improve a vehicle's payload.
Because of these benefits, Near Space is the ideal medium for communications and sensing to support both governmental and commercial requirements.
