Near-space
Author: CislunarSpace
Site: https://cislunarspace.cn
Definition
Near-space refers to the atmospheric region between conventional airspace (below 20 km) and space (above 100 km, the Kármán line), typically spanning 20-100 km altitude. This region encompasses portions of the stratosphere, mesosphere, and the lower thermosphere.
Altitude Stratification
| Region | Altitude | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional airspace | 0-20 km | Below commercial cruise altitudes |
| Stratosphere | 18-50 km | Temperature inversion, ozone layer |
| Mesosphere | 50-80 km | Temperature decrease, ice crystal clouds |
| Lower thermosphere | 80-100 km | Temperature rise, ionosphere onset |
| Space | >100 km | Orbital flight possible |
Strategic Value
Near-space combines characteristics of both aviation and space domains:
- ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance): Above-cloud persistent monitoring
- Communication relay: Low-latency satellite communication alternative
- Navigation augmentation: Supplement to GPS and satellite navigation
- Space science: Atmospheric physics and space weather research platform
- Asymmetric advantage: Counter low-orbit threats at lower cost
Related Concepts
References
- Zuo G, Chen L. Near-space Environment Characteristics and Modeling[J]. Chinese Journal of Space Science, 2025.
- NASA. US Standard Atmosphere 1976[M]. US Government Printing Office, 1976.