The bridge to space: CNS technology for high altitude operations

The US Class E airspace from 60,000 to 100,000 feet is currently designed for military operations, however, new commercial operations, including unmanned free balloons, high endurance UAS and commercial space operations (including manned free balloons) are beginning to occupy that airspace, and will require air traffic services. Technological developments in CNS will not only enable IFR services in this airspace, but could provide a CNS roadmap for the complete integration of commercial space operations in the National Airspace System. Current technologies are being validated to support aircraft surveillance to 100,000 feet MSL. Communication with these vehicles is currently achieved with a variety of ground-based and satellite-based systems. Transitioning from barometric to GPS altimetry in this stratum may provide opportunities for vertical separation standards that maximize airspace efficiency and access and provides concepts that may prove valuable for services above this airspace. High endurance, high altitude, unmanned operations are sufficiently different from current aviation operational concepts and have significantly diverse mission needs to warrant an examination of new operational concepts for ultra high airspace. This paper will consider new concepts for separation and planning that may be necessary to provide IFR services in this airspace. The development of CNS standards and airspace planning are not divorced partners. The mission needs of unmanned operators, coupled with new capabilities offered by technical innovation should be exploited to maximize the opportunities presented by new entrants seeking to occupy currently uncongested airspace. This is a unique opportunity in aviation history. In taking the clean slate approach to the airspace management above FL600, the recognition of commercial space operations as airspace users allows for integrated design concepts, to include CNS standards appropriate for all user types.