What role does Airport Surface Detection Equipment (ASDE) play in airports?

Airport Surface Detection Equipment (ASDE) is primarily designed for ground surveillance at airports. Its main function is to monitor and track the movement of aircraft and vehicles on the airport surface, providing real-time information to air traffic controllers. This capability is crucial for ensuring safety by helping to prevent collisions on the runway and taxiways, particularly in busy or complex airport environments.

While other options touch on functions associated with airport operations, such as assisting during bad weather or enhancing communication between pilots, these are not the primary roles of ASDE. Moreover, measuring runway lengths is outside the scope of ASDE's functions, as runway measurements are typically conducted during construction or maintenance, not managed by surface detection systems. The specificity of ASDE's role in ground surveillance clearly underlines its importance in maintaining operational safety and efficiency at airports.