Satellite data powers AI-optimised ship navigation

The guidance system uses readily available satellite observation data to plot the swiftest, safest ocean travel route

Spotted: German startup Deep Blue Globe’s POSEIDON artificial intelligence (AI) solution guides maritime traffic operators along the best possible travel route. Using real-time satellite data, POSEIDON’s autonomous navigation optimises every aspect of a ship’s journey, including safety, speed and fuel consumption.

As the weather changes, so too do the solution’s route recommendations. Ocean-going vessels receive continuous travel support through the combination of satellite geo-location navigation and real-time maritime traffic and weather conditions. The system helps keep sailors safer, and the environment benefits as well. Ships burn less fuel as they spend less time at sea, and the vessels stay in good condition for longer, thus helping reduce maintenance costs. 

To power its route planning, POSEIDON’s AI uses satellite Earth observation data from the European Commission’s Copernicus programme. The Deep Blue Globe team designed the AI-powered solution to be accessible to owners and operators of ships of any size. Crucially, the system is compatible with the Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) used by most modern-day maritime crafts. Shipowners don’t need to buy any additional equipment to take advantage of POSEIDON’s intelligence. 

The Deep Blue Globe team won the 2018 Galileo Masters Hesse Challenge, and the company is currently in incubation at the European Space Agency’s Business Incubation Centre. Further development of POSEIDON’s capabilities will help accelerate the evolution and maturation of unmanned autonomous maritime vehicle systems.