An affordable solution to the SAT-AIS ESA initiative for maritime surveillance

Paper number

IAC-11,B5,1,2,x10833

Author

Dr. Charles Koeck, EADS Astrium, France

Coauthor

Mr. Philippe Chèoux-Damas, ASTRIUM EADS, France

Coauthor

Mr. Grégory Flandin, ASTRIUM EADS, France

Coauthor

Mr. Norbert Hazan, ASTRIUM EADS, France

Coauthor

Mr. François Copin, ASTRIUM EADS, France

Year

2011

Abstract

SAT-AIS is the Agency’s initiative for a European space system that will provide maritime traffic data to institutional organisations and other entities, based on detection of ship AIS signals. 
Maritime Surveillance increasingly relies on space systems to combine different missions such as observation (radar & optical), AIS message capture, Search and Rescue data collection and signal intelligence. These means are complementary and allow coverage of cooperative (AIS) and non-cooperative vessels (not emitting AIS). Although the AIS communication system protocol was not originally designed for capture from space, this opportunity is very promising and provides a good situational awareness of vessels at a consistent scale with other sensors.
The space-based AIS mission, as part of the maritime surveillance capabilities will offer a global situation awareness, a rapid access to worldwide information with short time data refreshing capabilities. Space-based AIS services can support commercial shipping, environmental and security issues of maritime surveillance, extending the coastal services to high seas with a global view and answer to users needs such as Maritime Security, Environment and Safety, Fleet management. 
Such system design, performances and services capabilities will be addressed in the scope of phase B1 study led by ESA in 2011.
Astrium has proposed an innovative approach to define an affordable operational system based on a LEO constellation of simple light satellites meeting high performances and deployed with an optimized launch strategy. 
This paper presents the definition and performances of a new generation of SAT-AIS system. Space segment, ground segment and concept of operations will be described as key components optimized for a cost effective end-to-end solution compatible of SAT-AIS programme stakes.

Abstract document

IAC-11,B5,1,2,x10833.brief.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-11,B5,1,2,x10833.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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