Recent research conducted by Bong-Kyu Jung from the Department of Marine Police System at Gyeongsang National University has shed light on a critical issue affecting maritime safety along the southern coast of Korea, particularly around Geoje Island. The study, published in the journal Remote Sensing, delves into the challenges posed by geographical features—specifically high-altitude mountains and islands—on the effectiveness of the Automatic Identification System (AIS) used by ships.
AIS is a vital technology that helps prevent maritime collisions by providing real-time location and navigation data for vessels. However, the complex coastal geography of the region creates radio-shaded areas where AIS signals can be weak or entirely lost. This can lead to significant gaps in data, which may hinder the ability of maritime traffic control centers to monitor vessel movements effectively.
Jung’s research involved a practical experiment where two identical AIS devices were installed on a vessel to assess how well they transmitted location data under varying conditions. The findings revealed that one device was unable to transmit its location for approximately 57 minutes, while the other device faced a communication blackout of about 1 hour and 46 minutes. This lack of information can severely impede rescue efforts during maritime accidents.
“The accuracy of the GNSS location, determined by the AIS equipment installed on the ship, is essential for investigating the cause of accidents and facilitating rescue missions,” Jung stated. This highlights the urgent need for improved AIS coverage in radio-shaded areas to ensure that vessels can be accurately tracked, especially in emergency situations.
From a commercial perspective, this research opens up several opportunities for maritime sectors. Companies involved in maritime technology and safety solutions can explore the development and installation of additional land-based AIS stations in areas identified as radio-shaded. This could enhance the reliability of AIS data, leading to better navigation safety and more efficient vessel traffic management.
Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of integrating new technologies, such as advanced satellite communications and improved terrestrial AIS infrastructure, to mitigate the limitations of current systems. With the global maritime industry increasingly focusing on safety and efficiency, there is a growing market for innovations that address these challenges.
As the maritime sector continues to evolve, the insights from Jung’s research could play a pivotal role in shaping future safety protocols and technology investments. The need for accurate vessel tracking in complex coastal environments is clear, and addressing these challenges can lead to safer seas and more secure maritime operations overall.
