CAA Norway is conducting UAT ground station trials
The UAT (Universal Access Transceiver) test transmitter plays a critical role in modern aviation, providing essential data for traffic, weather, and airspace information. As we continue to advance in our testing phases, it’s crucial for operators and pilots to understand the capabilities and limitations of these systems.
What is a UAT test transmitter?
A UAT test transmitter is designed to broadcast traffic, weather, and airspace information. It operates on 978 MHz and is commonly used in aviation for Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) services. These services are vital for enhancing situational awareness and ensuring safer skies.
Key features and applications
1. Traffic data transmission:
The UAT transmitter sends real-time traffic data, enabling aircraft with compatible receivers to visualize surrounding air traffic. This is particularly useful in regions with high traffic density, improving pilot awareness and aviation safety.
The UAT transmitter is accompanied by traffic receivers that feed data into it. The station at Starmoen senses Remote ID from drones, ADS-L, ADS-B, OGN, FANET, and Pilot Aware.
The station will be able to multiliterate Mode S transponders once it is accompanied by other sensor stations.
The UAT station can be fed by externally acquired data such as ANSP data on mode A and C transponders or SafeSky integration.
2. Weather information:
Accurate weather information is crucial for flight planning and in-flight decision-making. The UAT transmitter provides updated weather reports, including forecasts, current conditions, and severe weather warnings. For now, the transmitter only provides current and forecast weather in text format; we will implement a graphical presentation shortly.
The test station broadcasts official data from the Meteorological Institute at the University of Oslo.
3. Airspace Information:
By broadcasting airspace status and restrictions in real-time, the UAT transmitter helps pilots avoid restricted zones and comply with airspace regulations, ensuring a smoother and safer flight experience.
The data broadcast is sourced from Eurocontrol.
Caution during the testing phase
The UAT test transmitter in Norway is currently in a testing phase. Users should exercise caution when utilizing the information provided by this system. Data accuracy and reliability cannot be fully guaranteed during the test period.
Future plans
The successful implementation and testing of UAT transmitters promise significant advancements in aviation safety and efficiency. As testing progresses, we aim to provide robust and reliable data to support the ever-growing demands of modern aviation.
Our aim is to build a network of similar ground stations at some ten locations in Norway. We will test radio technical compatibility, range and accuracy. If successful, we will develop a plan for full scale deployment in cooperations with our Nordic neighboring countries.