BLUF

New aircraft designs promise a golden age of stratospheric flight, overcoming historical aviation challenges.

Summary

KEY POINTS:
  1. Stratosphere: The second layer of atmosphere, starts at 33,000ft.
  2. Challenge: Thin air at high altitudes makes flying and breathing difficult.
  3. Zephyr S: US Army's experimental lightweight aircraft for stratospheric flight.
  4. Mission: The purpose of Zephyr S is currently undisclosed, and classified by US Army.

References