On Friday, September 23, 2016 at 6:38:47 PM UTC-6, WaltWX wrote:
"FlightAware and Aireon are proud to announce the world's first and only global, space-based ADS-B flight tracking solution. FlightAware's technology and Aireon's 66 ADS-B receivers in low earth orbit will forever change the world of flight tracking and flight safety. (flightaware.com)"

https://flightaware.com/aireon/

This will be a direct competitor to Delorme InReach and Spot tracking services used by sailplane pilots today

...of course... you'll have to have ADS-B out installed. But, depending on the cost of this service, it could ultimately be less expensive than paying $250-$400 per year for Delorme (However.. it might be more expensive!). My Trig T22 equipped glider can probably be upgraded to ADS-B out for $600. It has to be checked every two years by an avionics shop (but that should be done for the Mode S transponder anyway).

Walt Rogers WX

Walt,
Very interesting....One reason (among perhaps several) to perhaps stay with a Delorme InReach (or a SPOT) is that I use my InReach for not only soaring, but also for hiking & camping trips. It can also be used in any aircraft or glider and I know some folks use it for boating and for other outside activities. That being said, I do believe we will see many rapid advances in this area over the next few years. Thx - Renny