Futures

Ambient Shipping: Tools for Analyzing Cargo Ship AIS Data and Cargo Information, (from page 20241124.)

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Summary

The Ambient Shipping repository provides tools for capturing and analyzing AIS messages broadcast by cargo ships. It includes two main components: ship-utils.py, which translates an MMSI to a vessel’s name and retrieves its cargo information, and ais-server.py, a data relay server for decoding and transmitting AIS data to a remote database. The Automatic Identification System (AIS) broadcasts essential ship information, and the repository allows users to decode this data and connect it with public datasets, revealing what cargo ships are carrying. This project emerged from a residency program focused on the impacts of maritime shipping on global trade.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Enhanced Transparency in Shipping Utilization of AIS data for revealing cargo contents of ships. Shifting from opaque shipping practices to transparent cargo tracking. In 10 years, shipping may become fully transparent, impacting trade regulations and consumer awareness. Growing demand for supply chain transparency and accountability in global trade. 4
Decentralized Shipping Data Collection Use of local servers like Raspberry Pi to collect AIS data. Moving from centralized shipping data systems to decentralized, locally managed data collection. Local communities may play a larger role in monitoring and documenting maritime activities. Advancements in technology enabling low-cost data collection and analysis. 3
Integration of Public and Private Data Combining public AIS data with private shipping records for deeper insights. Transitioning from isolated data sources to integrated public-private data ecosystems. In a decade, we might see comprehensive databases merging various data types for better logistics management. The need for improved decision-making in shipping and logistics through data fusion. 4
Increased Use of SDR Technology Growth in using Software Defined Radio technology for maritime monitoring. From traditional maritime monitoring methods to advanced SDR technology. In 10 years, SDR technology could dominate maritime communication and monitoring practices. Technological advancements making maritime data collection more efficient and accessible. 4
Artistic Engagement with Maritime Shipping Artistic projects exploring the implications of shipping on oceans and trade. Shifting from purely commercial views of shipping to integrating artistic and critical perspectives. In a decade, the narrative around shipping may include more artistic and environmental considerations. Rising awareness of environmental issues and the cultural impact of global trade. 3

Concerns

name description relevancy
Data Privacy and Security of Maritime Data With the ability to access cargo ship data and contents, there is a potential risk of misuse of sensitive information. 4
Unauthorized Access to AIS Data The possibility of unauthorized individuals intercepting or manipulating AIS signals and data can compromise ship safety and operational integrity. 5
Environmental Impact of Increased Shipping Transparency Greater transparency in shipping may lead to increased scrutiny of the environmental impact and practices of shipping companies. 3
Regulatory Compliance and Oversight The dependence on data published by customs and border protection raises concerns about data accuracy and regulatory compliance. 4
Maritime Security Risks Public access to detailed shipping data could present security risks, making vessels more vulnerable to piracy or other illegal activities. 5

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Data-Driven Transparency in Shipping Using AIS and public data to reveal cargo contents of ships, enhancing transparency in maritime trade. 5
Decentralized Monitoring Systems Deploying small Linux machines with SDRs for real-time monitoring of AIS signals in various locations. 4
Community-Driven Maritime Observation Encouraging collaborative efforts for monitoring and analyzing shipping data within local communities. 4
Integration of Technology and Art Combining artistic expression with technological tools to critique and explore maritime logistics and global trade. 4
Enhanced Safety and Awareness in Maritime Operations Improving situational awareness and safety for ships through real-time AIS data broadcasting and analysis. 5
Utilization of Open APIs for Data Retrieval Leveraging public APIs like Enigma to access detailed shipping records and improve information accessibility. 4

Technologies

name description relevancy
Ambient Shipping A system for capturing and analyzing AIS messages to understand cargo ship contents and movements. 4
Automatic Identification System (AIS) A maritime communication system that broadcasts ship position, speed, and metadata for safety and situational awareness. 5
RTL-SDR technology A software-defined radio technology used to receive and decode AIS transmissions from ships. 4
Enigma Public API An API that provides access to public datasets, including bills of lading for analyzing cargo contents. 4
Automated Manifest System A system that contains structured documentation of imported goods, crucial for understanding global trade logistics. 5

Issues

name description relevancy
Data Privacy in Maritime Shipping As AIS data can reveal detailed information about cargo ships and their contents, concerns regarding data privacy and security may emerge. 4
Environmental Impact of Shipping Traffic Increased monitoring of shipping traffic may raise awareness of the environmental impacts of maritime shipping on oceans and marine life. 5
Regulation of AIS Data Usage With the growing use of AIS data for various applications, there may be a need for regulations governing its usage and access. 3
Technological Accessibility for AIS Monitoring The reliance on technologies like RTL-SDR and Raspberry Pi for AIS data collection may highlight issues of accessibility and technological disparity. 3
Global Trade Transparency The ability to track cargo shipments may push for greater transparency in global trade practices and logistics. 4