Development of a Space-Based AIS Receiver Payload

Paper number

IAC-08.B2.4.2

Author

Mr. Wouter Jan Ubbels, ISIS - Innovative Solutions In Space BV, The Netherlands

Coauthor

Mr. Abe Bonnema, ISIS - Innovative Solutions In Space B.V., The Netherlands

Coauthor

Mr. Jeroen Rotteveel, ISIS - Innovative Solutions In Space BV, The Netherlands

Coauthor

Dr. Bert Monna, Systematic, The Netherlands

Coauthor

Mr. Eddie van Breukelen, ISIS - Innovative Solutions In Space B.V., The Netherlands

Year

2008

Abstract

The Automatic Identification System is a system for identification and location of vessels. Ships equipped with an AIS transponder exchange data including identification, course, speed, position and status. AIS works by using a Time Division Multiple Access protocol on marine VHF frequencies. Thereby, the system is inherently limited to line-of-sight propagation which limits the range for detecting vessels by shore-based Vessel Traffic Service systems. Space-based AIS by using AIS receivers on board of small satellites in Low Earth Orbit can provide additional shipping surveillance information in areas where shore-based AIS infrastructure is not available, such as high seas or in polar regions. By using data from space based AIS receivers in Low Earth Orbit, shipping information from these areas becomes available, offering great opportunities for maritime surveillance, routing monitoring, environmental protection and monitoring fishery zones.

Using an AIS receiver on board of a small satellite poses special requirements to the receiver hardware and software. Apart from requirements with respect to the space environment, requirements which follow from the characteristics of the AIS signal as received by a space-borne platform play an important role. AIS itself was never designed with reception from space in mind. It is based on a Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) scheme which is established for each AIS cell. To solve this issue, Doppler shift can for instance be used advantageously in order to discriminate between signals. Past space-based AIS receiver experiments have largely been based on adapting off the shelf hardware, which has resulted in sub-optimal results and the need to develop dedicated receivers for space based applications. 

The paper describes the development of an AIS receiver payload for use on board (small) satellites in Low Earth Orbit (500-1000km) which is currently under development by ISIS – Innovative Solutions In Space BV and Systematic Design BV. This AIS receiver is a dedicated development, designed with the actual space environment in mind. Its low power and small footprint make it perfectly suitable for use on board small satellites. Using Digital Signal Processing, a number of issues are addressed such as Doppler shift discrimination and frame collisions events. The development effort is addressing a dual channel receiver, with the option for a third channel or frequency. 

The paper will also describe the AIS Hardware In The Loop test bench under development by ISIS and Systematic Design, and the breadboard demonstrator of the receiver. 

Abstract document

IAC-08.B2.4.2.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-08.B2.4.2.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.