ADLS (Aircraft Detection Lighting Systems)

Dark Sky operates four major projects in Germany with radar detection, providing ADLS signals for a total of 486 wind turbines. All other ADLS contracts of Dark Sky have been equipped with transponder-based detection systems. This solution can be used in Germany since 2020 and is the most cost-effective variant. Due to the decentralized design of the Dark -Sky system, it can also be used in small wind farms and at individual turbines.

In international markets, the detection system is selected on the basis of national guidelines. But even abroad, the transponder solution is preferred in most cases. Dark Sky has a suitable system available for all requirements.

Dark Sky BNK 2020

The decentralized transponder system from Dark Sky has been in use since 2020. It is particularly suitable for retrofitting to existing plants and was thus increasingly used in the implementation of the ADLS requirements in Germany. The system can be connected to all common lighting systems and therefore does not require any complex preparations or conversions for installation. In the latest expansion stage, the system was subjected to a new type examination under the designation “BNK 2022” and is now even easier to use. “BNK” ist the german expression for “ADLS”

-> All information about the ADLS system “BNK 2020/BNK 2022”.

TCL: Transponder Controlled Lighting

To make the implementation of BNK requirements even easier, Dark Sky has developed the TCL system together with ENERTRAG Systemtechnik. It combines a modern lighting system including infrared function with a decentralized transponder system. Thus, it can be installed like a beaconing system already in the factory or during the construction of new plants. This solution requires no integration into networks and no project-specific commissioning. The BNK system on each WTG works autonomously and can go into operation immediately after installation.

-> More informations on TCL

Radar-based systems

In markets where transponder-based systems are not recognized, Dark Sky offers different variants of radar systems for ADLS solutions. These solutions are based on the large-scale ADLS projects tested in Germany and use sensors from renowned technology partners. Such central ADLS systems are more complex to implement, but allow ADLS solutions for large regions and can therefore be interesting in terms of price if many operators join forces in one region.

Important definitions for ADLS systems

ADLS interface

In principle, every lighting system should have a ADLS interface. In many cases, this interface must be retrofitted by the manufacturer of the lighting system or by the manufacturer of the WTG. If retrofitting is not possible, Dark Sky also offers retrofitting to a new and ADLS-compatible lighting system, including a maintenance contract if desired.

Central interface

Some manufacturers of wind turbines offer central interfaces for beaconing, i.e. all beaconing systems in the wind farm can be addressed with one technical connection. Decentralized systems such as our transponder system “BNK 2020” do not require a central interface.

Infrared marking

According to new administrative regulations in Germany, ADLS systems require additional infrared marking so that they can be seen better by pilots with night vision equipment. The infrared marking is already integrated in our decentralized transponder system “BNK 2020”. It can be easily retrofitted on central ADLS systems.

Site assessment

For the use of ADLS, a site assessment must be submitted to the responsible aviation authority. Dark Sky produces the site assessment itself in accordance with the test criteria from the type examination and provides it to customers as part of a contract option if required. In most cases, the site test does not require an aerial survey; the functional test is performed by the installation team on site. If desired, the site assessment can also be carried out by an official type examination body.

Contact us:

Phone: +49 395 7665 8080

Email: info@dark-sky.com