Unseenlabs is a European company based in France specialized in space-based radio-frequency (RF) detection to enhance Maritime Domain Awareness. The company has established itself as a key player in maritime surveillance by developing a technology that enables persistent monitoring of maritime activity with extensive coverage and high accuracy, regardless of weather conditions or whether vessels are cooperating. Unseenlabs technology provides RF data that complements other systems like AIS, VMS (Vessel Monitoring System), SAR (Synthetic aperture radar), and optical technologies, significantly improving vessel monitoring capabilities.

The Unseenlabs constellation is designed to address critical gaps in maritime surveillance, particularly those resulting from the limitations of the Automatic Identification System (AIS). While AIS is widely used, it can be turned-off voluntarily, easily jammed or spoofed, leading to significant blind spots when monitoring the maritime traffic. By capturing and analyzing the RF signals emitted by various shipborne systems, the Unseenlabs constellation enables the detection of a broader range of vessels at sea, offering a more comprehensive and reliable view of maritime traffic.

Satellite Design  

Unseenlabs designs its cutting-edge radio-frequency payloads, builds and operates its own satellite constellation. The satellites are designed to be lightweight and cost-effective while providing high-quality and accurate data for detailed analysis. Each satellite embeds an exclusive mono-satellite technology which allows for the detection, characterisation, and geolocation of RF emitters for any maritime area around the globe.

Mission Operations  

As of August 2024, the Unseenlabs constellation consists of 15 satellites, 2 more satellites will be launched in 2024 with plans to expand to a total of 25 satellites by the end of 2025. Currently, the constellation offers a revisit time of approximately 3 hours, depending on the area of interest, which will be reduced to less than 1 hour once the full constellation is operational. The geolocation of each detected emitter can reach 1 kilometre accuracy. During every single pass, each mono-satellite intercepts RF signals and covers a wide area, up to 300,000 km2 (550 x 550 km or 300 x 300 Nm).

Unseenlabs mission operations focus on the persistent monitoring and analysis of RF signals from space. Each satellite in the constellation captures electromagnetic emissions from vessels across vast maritime areas. The data are provided to maritime stakeholders in an easily interpretable format, enabling dynamic and responsive surveillance of the Maritime Domain.

Related Links  

Learn more about the company:

• Unseenlabs Company Website*

*The information provided is sourced and updated by external entities. For further details, please consult our Terms and Conditions page.