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FAQ & Glossary

Welcome to our FAQ and Glossary page dedicated to the Automatic Identification System (AIS)!

At Kinéis, we understand that navigating the world of AIS can sometimes seem complex. That’s why we have gathered answers to the most frequently asked questions to help you better understand this crucial ecosystem for maritime safety.

Whether you are an experienced professional, a technology enthusiast, or simply curious, this section is for you.

Explore our Q&A below to enhance your knowledge of AIS and discover how Kinéis is innovating to make navigation safer and more efficient. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us!

What is an AIS satellite?

An S-AIS (Satellite Automatic Identification System) satellite is a type of satellite specifically designed to receive, process and transmit AIS data from ships at sea. Unlike traditional AIS systems based on ground stations, S-AIS satellites provide global coverage, including in remote or densely populated areas, and in international waters where terrestrial infrastructures are limited.

What data does AIS transmit?

AIS transmits several types of data essential for navigation and safety at sea.

Dynamic data: updated frequently
Static data: less frequently updated

What is the coverage of an AIS satellite?

The coverage of an AIS satellite refers to its ability to capture signals emitted by vessels equipped with AIS transponders. With Kinéis S-AIS satellites, you benefit from 100% global coverage, regardless of where ships are navigating.

What is AIS Spoofing?

AIS spoofing is a fraudulent technique that involves intentionally falsifying the messages sent by vessels. This falsification can be carried out through various methods...

What is Dark Shipping?

Dark Shipping refers to the practice where ships disable their tracking systems, such as the AIS (Automatic Identification System), to evade monitoring by maritime authorities. This can be done for various reasons, including fraud, piracy, or the illegal transport of goods.

Is AIS mandatory for all ships?

According to the international SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) regulations, AIS is mandatory for certain types of vessels, depending on their size and type:
Class A: Class A AIS transponders are required for all merchant ships over 300 gross tons engaged in international voyages, cargo ships over 500 gross tons not engaged in international voyages, as well as all passenger ships, regardless of their size.

AIS transponder, Class A, Class B: what's the difference?

AIS transponder: Installed on board ships, the AIS transponder transmits and receives crucial information via the Automatic Identification System (AIS). It provides data such as a vessel's identity, position, speed and heading, thus enhancing maritime safety.

How has AIS become essential for maritime safety?

The idea of an automated system for the exchange of maritime information emerged in the 1990s, following several discussions among maritime industry experts. These discussions revealed the need for a universal means of sharing essential data, such as the identity, position, speed, and course of vessels, to enhance safety at sea and improve maritime traffic management.

What's the difference between GPS and AIS?

The coverage of an AIS satellite refers to its ability to pick up signals from vessels equipped with AIS transponders. With Kinéis S-AIS satellites, you benefit from 100% global coverage, wherever your boats are sailing. Our satellite constellation ensures continuous, reliable monitoring of all maritime movements, even in remote or densely populated areas.

What is NMEA?

NMEA (National Marine Electronics Association) is an organization that sets standards for communication between marine electronic equipment. The most common format, NMEA 0183, enables devices such as GPS and AIS systems to share data in a standardized way. This includes essential information such as a vessel's position, speed and heading.

What are MMSI and ISMM?

MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity) is a unique 9-digit number assigned to each vessel equipped with a maritime communication system. This number uniquely identifies a vessel in maritime communication systems such as AIS and VHF, facilitating tracking and safety at sea.

VHF, UHF and AIS frequencies: definitions and differences

VHF (Very High Frequency) refers to a radio frequency band between 30 MHz and 300 MHz. It is widely used in maritime communications, particularly for VHF radio systems, enabling ships and coastal stations to exchange critical information.

GPS & GNSS: definitions

GPS (Global Positioning System): A dedicated satellite navigation system, developed and operated by the US government. It provides worldwide positioning, navigation and synchronization services.

What are AIS, TDMA and SOTDMA protocols?

The Automatic Identification System (AIS) is a maritime communication system that enables ships to transmit and receive essential information on their position, course, speed and other relevant data. It uses VHF signals to enable ships and coast stations to locate each other and improve maritime safety. The system is particularly useful for collision avoidance, monitoring maritime traffic and collecting data for analysis.

What is an IMO number?

The IMO number is a unique 7-digit identifier assigned to each commercial vessel by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

What is a Call Sign - Ship Identifier?

The Call Sign, or ship identifier, is a unique code assigned to each ship, used for radio communications and identification.

What is ATON - Aids to Navigation?

Aids to Navigation (ATON) are visual or audible devices designed to assist maritime navigation by providing information about navigable waters.

Types: They include buoys, lighthouses, day marks, and sound signals.

What is LRIT - Long Range Identification of Ships?

LRIT (Long Range Identification and Tracking) is a maritime monitoring system that allows for the identification and tracking of ships over long distances. It enables coastal states and maritime authorities to receive data on the positions of vessels, thereby enhancing maritime safety and traffic management.

What is NRI - Nominal Reporting Interval?

The NRI (Nominal Reporting Interval) is the standard time interval between data transmissions from a vessel in a tracking system, such as S-AIS.

What is the VTS – Vessel Traffic Services?

Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) are systems that help manage and monitor vessel movements in busy waterways and ports. They use radar, satellite, and communication technologies to ensure safe navigation and prevent collisions.