Link Analysis For Space-based AIS Reception

Paper number

IAC-07-B2.I.12

Author

Mr. Kristian Reiten, Narvik University College, Norway

Coauthor

Mr. Rune Schalbusch, Norway

Coauthor

Raymond Kristiansen, Narvik University College, Norway

Coauthor

Prof. Frank Vedal, Narvik University College, Norway

Coauthor

Dr. Per Johan Nicklasson, Narvik University College, Norway

Coauthor

Mr. Per Christian Berntsen, Norway

Year

2007

Abstract

In this paper, we present the results of an investigation of the space-based Automatic Identification System (AIS). We focus in particular on the signals received by a nano/micro-sized satellite in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), using the existing VHF communication channels. AIS is a maritime safety and vessel traffic monitoring system imposed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Today's ship-to-shore and ship-to-ship communication is limited by the horizon, and the signal reception is very dependent on the altitude of the transmitter antenna that is located in the ship. This means that the shore receiver station can not communicate with ships beyond the horizon, and will therefore only act as a safety system for ships close to the shore. AIS implemented on a space-based platform have the potential of monitoring large areas and communicate with a vast number of ships, and can therefore be used to increase the safety of open sea operations. 

For small satellites, a half-wave cross dipole antenna is well suited for communication purposes. This antenna is small, light weight, has the desired characteristics and can be hidden inside the satellite body during launch and later be deployed while in orbit. A cross dipole antenna can process both horizontally and vertically polarized signals, making it a circular polarized antenna, which to some extent compensates for rotation of signal polarization due to atmospheric influence and antenna orientation.

In this paper, we investigate the possibility of using space-based AIS reception with the aforementioned antenna design. In particular, we focus our analysis on link performance, atmospheric interference and antenna behaviour in the AIS frequency band.

An analysis of the link performance shows that with the suggested satellite antenna design and the standard ship AIS antenna, the link will provide a good reception and has a very large power-to-noise ratio. In terms of reception, a signal power margin of 10-15 dB, relative to the sensitivity of a standard receiver, can be achieved.

Abstract document

IAC-07-B2.I.12.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-07-B2.I.12.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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