This paper introduces the special space location and typical meteorological characteristics of the near space, combs the situation of scientific exploration and research on the near space through space-based, ground-based and in-situ platforms at home and abroad. To aim at the current situation of insufficient understanding of the near space, the paper argues that the scientific exploration and application of the near space should take the near space vehicle as the main platform, whose technological development and application status are reviewed including high-altitude balloons, stratospheric airships and solar long-range UAVs in military and civil markets. Finally the condenses some key issues that need attention and puts forward some concrete suggestions for the near space development and application of our country.

near-space  /  aerostat  /  stratosphere communication  /  airship  /  high-altitude balloon  /  unmanned aircraft