Which surveillance technology is minimally affected by weather and distance?

Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) technology operates independently of ground-based radar systems and is designed to provide real-time information about an aircraft's position and velocity. It relies on satellite navigation systems, allowing aircraft to transmit their precise location and other relevant data directly to air traffic control and other nearby aircraft through a digital broadcasting system.

The strength of ADS-B lies in its ability to function effectively even in adverse weather conditions and over significant distances, making it a reliable means of surveillance in various situations. Given that the system is less reliant on line-of-sight like radar systems, it can perform efficiently in different atmospheric conditions, providing consistent coverage and enhancing situational awareness in the cockpit as well as for air traffic managers.

In contrast, other technologies such as Primary Surveillance Radar (PSR) and Surface Movement Guidance and Control System (SMGCS) can be significantly impacted by weather phenomena, as they rely on radar signals that might be attenuated or scattered by rain, fog, or other atmospheric conditions. Additionally, multilateration (MLAT) uses ground stations to triangulate an aircraft's position, which can also suffer from reduced effectiveness depending on the distance from the ground stations and atmospheric factors. Therefore, ADS-B stands out as a superior