The final demonstration flight of EUSPA (European Union Space Programme Agency) TRACE project in the framework of the ''Adoption of EGNOS in Aviation'' programme will take place at the ATLAS centre in Villacarrillo (Jaén) on 2nd December 2021.
TRACE is based on the development of a smart beacon, which will enable the remote identification of drones flying at very low altitudes. For this purpose, TRACE promotes the use of EGNOS in the Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) sector. EGNOS is an Augmentation System based on a network of satellites and ground stations used to improve the performance of the various satellite navigation systems (GPS, Galileo, GLONASS) in Europe. In this way, TRACE will enable safer integration of drones into airspace through U-space, making it easier for traditional aviation pilots to know the position of drones more accurately.
The project is led by Alter Technology and involves renowned companies such as UNIFLY, PILDO LABS and FADA-CATEC.
The European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA) provides safe and secure European satellite navigation services, promotes the commercialization of Galileo, EGNOS, and Copernicus data and services and coordinates the EU’s forthcoming governmental satellite communications programme GOVSATCOM. EUSPA is responsible for the security accreditation of all the EU Space Programme components. By fostering the development of an innovative and competitive space sector and engaging with the entire EU Space community, EUSPA contributes to the European Green Deal and digital transition, the safety and security of the Union and its citizens, while reinforcing its autonomy and resilience.
TRACE, which is now reaching its final phase with the demonstrator to be presented on Thursday, has included in its preparation phase flights in different scenarios, including agricultural, infrastructure inspection and urban flights, and has demonstrated the successful use of this beacon.