Exploring Abandoned Navigational Beacons for Aircraft Guidance
Photographer Ignacio Evangelista has captured stunning images of VOR beacons, which were once crucial for aviation navigation but are now being replaced by GPS technology. These VORs (very high-frequency omnidirectional range stations) served as giant antennas that emitted radio signals to help aircraft determine their location and stay on course by flying from one beacon to another.
These remote structures, located in secluded spots to avoid signal interference, are now largely unknown to the public. Evangelista’s photographs highlight the beauty and significance of these beacons in shaping air routes for planes. While GPS technology offers more precise navigation, VORs continue to serve as a backup during situations like solar storms or GPS disruptions, preventing potential chaos in the skies.
As the aviation industry transitions to GPS-based navigation systems, VOR stations like the ones captured by Evangelista are becoming obsolete. However, the publicly available locations of these beacons allow enthusiasts to locate them using GPS, showcasing a unique blend of old and new technologies. Evangelista embarked on a mission to document these remaining VORs before they fade into obscurity.
The photographs showcase three VOR stations, with VOR NVS situated on the outskirts of Navas del Rey in Spain, VOR CMA located near Calamocha village, also in Spain, and VOR BRY positioned near Bray-sur-Seine in France. These images not only capture the architectural beauty of these structures but also shed light on their historical significance in aviation navigation.
Evangelista’s work serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving these abandoned navigational beacons as a part of aviation history. While GPS technology continues to revolutionize air travel, the legacy of VOR stations remains a vital component of the industry’s heritage. By documenting these fading landmarks, Evangelista has immortalized their role in guiding aircraft through the skies and navigating the complexities of the airways.
