Maker Enhances ESP32 Desktop Radar with ADS-B Flight Data and OTA Updates
A new iteration of the ESP32-based desktop radar utilises Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast traffic to display aircraft origins, destinations, and local weather conditions via an authenticated web interface.
A developer has released an updated version of a desktop radar project built around the ESP32-C3 microcontroller and a 1.28-inch round display. The device visualises nearby aircraft by plotting their distance and bearing using Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B) traffic. The project, which gained initial attention as a featured model on the 3D-printing platform Makerworld, has been significantly modified to address hardware compatibility issues and expand firmware capabilities.
The build process involves soldering thin, silicone-based wires to the microcontroller, a task the developer noted took approximately 15 minutes and drew parallels to their previous experience constructing racing drones. Firmware configuration is handled via the browser-based ESPHome web flashing tool, allowing the software to be installed in under 30 seconds. The developer completed the work during a weekend following a busy week presenting at Devrelcon in New York City.
While the original Makerworld design was visually appealing, the developer found the physical tolerances too tight for their specific batch of electronic boards. Consequently, they opted to print an alternative model to ensure proper fitment. The developer indicated plans to eventually design a custom 3D-printed enclosure and port the project to a larger display once the current iteration is stabilised.
Significant firmware enhancements now provide deeper flight context. Where data is available, the display shows the origin and destination of each aircraft, using the callsign as a fallback. Aircraft types are rendered more descriptively, such as specifying a B737-800 rather than a generic B737. The interface also integrates local weather data, including temperature and humidity, alongside the current time and date.
The updated firmware introduces a web interface that allows users to modify coordinates post-setup and adjust display options without resetting the Wi-Fi configuration. Users can toggle settings for units, runways, weather, temperature format, and time display. Text size has been increased by 10% by default, with a slider allowing adjustments between 80% and 130%. The system now supports authenticated over-the-air updates, enabling future firmware installations directly through a browser without requiring a USB connection.
