We use Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast or “ADS-B” to monitor manned aircraft traffic (e.g. planes) flying in the area around a drone swarm light show setup.

As part of our detailed safety procedures and methods of operation our ADS-B monitoring system allows for alerts when aircraft come within preset distances and altitudes.

If you are interested in learning about ADS-B you can read more on Wikipedia:

“Automatic dependent surveillance–broadcast (ADS–B) is a surveillance technology in which an aircraft determines its position via satellite navigation and periodically broadcasts it, enabling it to be tracked. The information can be received by air traffic control ground stations as a replacement for secondary surveillance radar, as no interrogation signal is needed from the ground. It can also be received by other aircraft to provide situational awareness and allow self-separation. ADS–B is “automatic” in that it requires no pilot or external input. It is “dependent” in that it depends on data from the aircraft’s navigation system.^[1]“

We use a hardware receiver called PingStation to collate ADS-B transmissions coming off aircraft. This is then sent down ethernet to a laptop which displays the data in a table and plotted on a map.

We’re able to see various data from the aircraft including speed, altitude, distance and more. This data is checked at regular intervals as part of our operating policy.

Our ADS-B setup is powered from a portable battery supply built into the custom made Pelicase the hardware is stored in. This gives us maximum flexibility in that we are not tied down to mains power being available on site.

To book a Drone Light Show or discuss your ideas and requirements please get in touch with us by email or by ringing 01327 876 037. You can fill out a contact form by clicking here