How does space-based ADS-B work?

ADS-B signals have a limited range and terrestrial stations are incapable of coverage over the oceans and in remote areas without power and internet.

Using satellites to collect ADS-B signals allows us to cover these areas efficiently and supplement our existing world-leading terrestrial receiver network.

ADS-B signals are sent out from the aircraft and collected by satellites orbiting the earth. 

The signals are then transmitted to ground stations and the Flightradar24 network. All of this occurs in near real-time.