Orbcomm, Pole Star and Weatherdock Launch Vessel Tracking Solution

Hali device. Photo: Orbcomm.

Orbcomm announced that it has collaborated with Pole Star and Weatherdock to develop Hali, a Class B tri-mode vessel tracking solution that ensures complete vessel visibility. Hali combines terrestrial and satellite Automatic Identification System (AIS) data capability with two-way satellite machine-to-machine (M2M) technology to deliver vessel location data to small craft and fleet owners and operators, maritime authorities and enforcement agencies, providing the actionable intelligence required to maximize maritime safety, security and environmental compliance.

Commercially available in the second quarter of 2017, the Hali solution includes AIS Class B hardware that is attached to small vessels, such as pleasure craft and fishing vessels, to track their position at all times, in any location. The tri-mode device transmits AIS data to land-based receivers along coastlines, to space-based satellite AIS receivers, and also through Orbcomm’s entire two-way proprietary data satellite network. The Hali device also includes SOS functionality and can send a distress message, providing accurate positional data to facilitate Search and Rescue (SAR) operations. Maritime customers receive the data in a web-based platform, which can filter user-defined fleets, sub-fleets and ports as well as create user permissions and custom zones.

According to the companies involved, Hali enables national agencies to improve SAR operations, enhance Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) and increase surveillance of marine protected areas. For fisheries, Hali enables regulatory compliance through AIS reporting requirements for fishing quotas as well as geofencing within exclusion zones, and mitigates risk and loss through increased safety and SOS alert capabilities.