High Performance VDES Payload on Small Satellite
To develop a high performance VHF Data Exchange System (VDES) payload on small satellite that will significantly improve signals de-collision and two-way data communication from space to achieve comprehensive global maritime traffic and assets tracking & analytics.
This project is multi-disciplinary and involves multiple IHLs comprising of A*STAR-I2R, A*STAR-IHPC, NUS-ECE (Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering) and NUS-STAR, with support from MPA (Maritime Port Authority) and early involvements from local industry partners.
TECHNOLOGY FEATURES
• Metamaterial based Isoflux VHF antenna design to provide wide coverage (±60°), so as to reduce the number of satellites in a constellation for continuous monitoring.
• Novel de-collision technique using A*STAR’s patented unique signal analysis & protocol design to reduce signal interference & increase tracking capability in an anticipated dense environment and low-complexity radio resource management.
• Indigenous 12U small satellite design using NUS’s patented modular and scalable bus system with in-orbit firmware update and fault tolerant features. Assembly, Integration and Testing (AIT) of the small satellite with VDES payload will be performed at NUS STAR’s facility.
NEW APPLICATIONS
• MPA plans to deploy the VDES solutions which could complement and replace current Automatic Identification System (AIS) progressively over the next decade, to pilot real-time maritime traffic and assets tracking.
• Unlock new applications such as e-Navigation, improving safety & security at sea and enhancing operational efficiency of shipping and port, and augmented navigation.