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While conspiracy theorists may have their take on more “eyes in the sky”, it appears that a new collection of satellites built by the UK-based Spire Global could play a key role in helping to improve a number of key functions. of the supply chain.
Four of the company’s nanosatellites will be placed in low Earth orbit later this month, with a mission to analyze global shipping and aviation routes, as well as weather forecasts. According to a report by SpaceDaily.com, they will join a fleet of more than 100 other surveillance means used to monitor and predict movements and environmental factors to help companies and governments make more informed decisions.
These satellites can connect with automatic identification systems installed on ocean-going vessels to track their position and transmit information to help them plot the best course, identify ideal operating speeds and know where other vessels are.
This data is combined with onboard machine learning algorithms to help predict key shipping information, such as estimated port arrival times. Nanosatellites, which are roughly the size of hand luggage, could help improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of global import-export activities.
Although Spire is a privately held company, the development of the satellites, as well as the launch, is done in partnership with the UK and European space agencies.
Image credit: Thomas Industry Update
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