On a (somewhat) more practical note
Here are instructions to build an ADS-B receiver with a Raspberry Pi (video if you prefer). That’s what powers FlightRadar24.com – 30,000 to 50,000 users (I’ve seen both figures) sending data to them.
ADS-B stands for Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast – meaning aircraft send out their GPS location to ground stations, as opposed to the old system which gathered two or more signals from the ground and calculated the position of the plane based on the difference.
You have to promise to keep it powered up 24/7 and to put the antenna outside somewhere unobstructed. In return, you get a free contributor’s subscription. Honestly, probably easier to pay the $15 for a basic subscription, but what’s the fun in that?
You can also apply for a free transmitter, but considering the South of England is probably one of the geekiest, nerdiest spots on the planet, I don’t think they’re lacking coverage in our area.
We use flightradar24 a lot. We’re in the path of beaucoups de flight traffic, civilian and military. Plus lots of microlights, drones, models and learners. Something interesting always overhead.
Posted: August 12th, 2026 under personal.
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