Embodiments describe a communication system optimized for low latency and includes one or more high altitude platforms disposed at intervals in data communication with each other forming a communication path and at least two network centers separated from each other by a predetermined distance, where the high altitude platforms receive data signals from the network centers, travel along a communication path between the network centers, forming a data relay and transferring the data signals along the communication path. Additional embodiments may include intervals that are at different altitudes or different distances and/or provide one or more high altitude platforms that comprise at least one of satellites, high altitude balloons, or unmanned aerial vehicles.