Space-based ADS-B will help curb aviation emissions

Satellite-enabled signalling by aircraft transiting oceanic routes offers a near-term solution to curbing aviation emissions, asserts a Purdue University study. Aireon is a joint venture developing a space-based surveillance system based on automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) position reporting. Beyond the reach of land-based radar, aircraft flying on oceanic routes must report their position by satellite link or HF voice radio when they arrive at predetermined waypoints. With less frequent information on the whereabouts of such aircraft, air navigation service providers (Ansps) keep them separated laterally by 50 nm and longitudinally (in trail) by 10 minutes, or about 80 nm. Space-based ADS-B will enable aircraft to constantly signal their position over remote expanses. <br/>