Maritime VSAT(Very Small Aperture Terminal) technology plays a vital role in ensuring seamless communication on vessels. In this blog, we'll explore how maritime VSAT works and its importance in modern maritime operations.
Like traditional VSAT systems, maritime VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) is a bi-directional satellite terminal that transmits and receives data via satellite.
The system is equipped with specialized antennas that can precisely track the target satellite, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity even as the ship moves across vast distances. Maritime VSAT uses a small dish antenna, often referred to as the maritime VSAT antenna, which is mounted on the ship’s deck and sends/receives signals from satellites orbiting the Earth. These antennas are typically protected by a fiberglass radome, which shields the equipment from harsh environmental conditions, including strong winds and rough seas, ensuring that the satellite signal remains strong and stable. By leveraging this technology, maritime VSAT ensures that ships, no matter how far offshore, can stay connected to the internet, make voice calls, and transfer data in real time.
1. Maritime VSAT Antenna
The system starts with the maritime VSAT antenna installed on the ship. This antenna communicates with satellites in geostationary orbit far above Earth. It uses the Open AMIP protocol to get satellite information, which helps the system calculate the right angles for the antenna to lock onto the satellite. The antenna adjusts its position to ensure it stays aligned with the satellite, even as the ship moves.
2. Satellite Communication
Once the antenna is aligned with the satellite, it sends data signals up to the satellite, which relays them to a ground station. The satellite then processes the data and sends it to the vessel or another central hub on land. The system continuously tracks the ship's movement using an onboard navigation module, so the antenna stays aligned with the satellite for uninterrupted connectivity.
3. Two-Way Data Transmission
Maritime VSAT allows two-way communication: the ship can send data (like emails, calls, or video) to shore, and it can receive information from land-based servers. This high-speed data transfer makes it possible for ships to access the internet, use video calls, and even work with cloud services, just like on land.
4. Network Integration
Once the data reaches the ground station, it's sent through fiber-optic cables, connecting the ship to the global telecommunications network. This ensures a continuous, reliable internet connection, even while the vessel is out at sea.
Reliable Connectivity: No matter where a vessel is located, whether near shore or deep at sea, maritime VSAT ensures reliable communication with the land.
Global Coverage: The geostationary satellites used in maritime VSAT systems provide nearly global coverage, enabling communication in all the world's oceans.
High-Speed Internet: Thanks to advanced satellite technology, vessels can experience broadband speeds that make streaming, browsing, and business operations feasible even at sea.
The selection of a maritime VSAT provider is crucial for ensuring reliable connectivity. Several factors need to be considered, such as satellite coverage, bandwidth availability, pricing, and customer service. Companies like BIRDSAT provide comprehensive solutions, offering flexible plans tailored to the needs of different vessel types.
