Space-Based ADS-B: Performance, Architecture and Market

Although the market for new space-based ATS services is still developing, it will eventually become a critical element for ATS surveillance. "Traditional" ADS-B lacks coverage over oceans and remote areas. The satellite industry is now responding to this capability gap and market need with a range of existing and proposed space-based Air Traffic Services (ATS) to augment or replace ground-based ADS-B. This paper provides a market assessment of space-based ATS surveillance and Aircraft tracking systems. ANSP requirements are also examined and performance factors, such as availability, latency, update intervals and system resilience, are compared across existing and emerging ATS providers. Various space-based system architectures are also evaluated. The paper also compares the strengths and weaknesses of potential space-based ATS systems and provides a realistic assessment of existing players and market options based upon compatibility with existing aircraft equipage, coverage, ground station networks, performance and costs.