An ORBCOMM [ORBC] satellite equipped with Automatic Identification System (AIS) capability was launched this month and will let the Coast Guard test the feasibility and effectiveness of message reception and reporting from space for ship tracking and other navigational activities. The satellite is in its proper orbit and is expected to begin transmitting operational data this summer. The demonstration is being sponsored by the Coast Guard’s Nationwide AIS project, which is being implemented in three main increments. The first was fielded last September and provides the capability to receive AIS messages at 55 ports and nine coastal areas across the country. The second increment will provide the capability to receive AIS messages out to 50 nautical miles and transmit AIS messages out to 24 nautical miles along the entire U.S. coastline and designated inland waterways. The final increment will extend the coverage for receipt of AIS messages out to 2,000 nautical miles from shore. The upcoming satellite test will assist in developing Increment Three.
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