ESA is offering access to radio-frequency data in a new Announcement of Opportunity for Unseenlabs.

The Unseenlabs constellation currently consists of 15 satellites, which perform radio-frequency (RF) detection to enhance Maritime Domain Awareness. Data from the satellites complement Automatic Identification System (AIS), Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), and VMS (Vessel Monitoring System) technologies, improving capabilities to monitor maritime activity.

The goal of Unseenlabs is to address gaps in maritime surveillance by providing a service for the detection and monitoring of vessels, including uncooperative or dark vessels. The information gathered enhances maritime traffic monitoring, strengthens security measures, helps to combat pollution, and protects marine environments. Additionally, the RF intelligence allows for the optimisation of shipping routes and assists insurers in safeguarding offshore assets.

The operational capacity of Unseenlabs' technology offers the following applications: 

• Combating illegal, unregulated, and unreported (IUU) fishing 
• Preventing malicious or hostile activities and intrusions into maritime protected areas
• Securing offshore installations and assets, such as oil rigs and wind farms 
• Safeguarding major sea routes and sensitive submarine installations like cables, pipelines, and underwater acoustic systems
• Monitoring insured assets to mitigate sanction and reputational risks for marine insurance companies;
• Conducting investigations based on historical data for due diligence and forensic purposes
• Providing business intelligence, including maritime flow analysis for international trade stakeholders
• Protecting regions facing conflict and increased maritime risks 

The Announcement of Opportunity for Unseenlabs enables researchers to request new data or historical data acquired by the constellation.

Access to the data requires submission of a Project Proposal, which will be evaluated by ESA. The Unseenlabs opportunity is open until 31 December 2024.

Go to the Announcement of Opportunity page to learn more and submit your proposal.