Transport infrastructure is founded upon the communication of data. With the addition of satellite technology, this can become far more reliable and allow for increased innovation opportunities. Both infrastructure and vehicles alike will exchange large amounts of data allowing them to respond to changes instantaneously. This can either be autonomously or from a remote location, such as transport hubs.

This data can take a variety of forms, including:

• Temperature sensors
• Vehicle battery life
• Positioning         
• Routes and diversions
• Speed sensors
• Weather conditions
• Congestion
• And more

Satellite communication services will be used to ensure the transmission of data is both continuous and reliable. This includes remote locations and times/places where terrestrial communications are absent or unreliable.

Here, we explore the impact of space data on smart transport and logistics, as well as a number of current and potential future uses.

What Opportunities Are There for Space Data in the Transport & Logistics Sector?

There are numerous present and future opportunities for space data in the transport and logistics sector, here we explain what these are and their potential implications.

Public Transport

In the coming years, technological advancements like the Internet of Things are set to revamp complete infrastructures, including public transport networks.

Bus timetables won’t work in the same way they currently do. For instance, users will send a signal to the bus about the time and location of their pick up. The closest vehicle will divert its route to pick up the passenger.

Satellite technology will also enable the regular maintenance and upkeep of public transport. Trains, for instance, will be able to send data to the local transfer hub notifying the relevant companies that specific carriages need assistance. For example, if a carriage on a train is overused or requires maintenance, the vehicle can notify the transfer hub of this before it creates a problem.

This will allow for a more efficient use of public transport while simultaneously bringing operation costs down.

Vehicle & Driver Communication

Vehicles of the future will be able to receive a constant stream of data from transport hubs and satellites.

For instance, satellites will be able to spot severe weather conditions like snow storms. This information will be communicated with the local transfer hub. This will in turn send a notification to every vehicle in the affected area. The car will then communicate to the driver/passenger that the battery is running low and the wheels are not suitable for the conditions expected. The car will be able to use satellite navigation to find an optimal route to the closest service stop.

Long haul truck drivers will also be able to utilise satellite data to their advantage. A tachometer will signal to a driver that they need to rest soon. The current planned route will be considered to ensure the driver has an opportunity to stop and rest while also refuelling to ensure their journey can be as efficient as possible.

Ships, Ports and Pollution Management

When ships arrive to a port, the two hubs will be able to communicate with each other about capacity and requirements. For example, a ship’s number of containers and capacity will be useful logistic information for ports to ensure maximum efficiency and safety.

Ships will also be able to make use of space data. Sensitive containers can be monitored by temperature sensors, to ensure goods are kept safe. Location of assets will also be tracked to reduce loss and potential theft. Satellite communications will share this information with the relevant transport hubs. The regular tracking of location, speed and course via GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems) and satellite communications will enable transport hubs to monitor the progress of journeys and offer real time route updates.

Satellite information will also allow for the monitoring of sea, land and air pollution. If pollution exceeds a set amount, ports can request some ships to wait until the port is less congested and thus less polluted.

Traffic and Accident Management

The use of satellite data will help alleviate some congestion on our roads. When accidents occur or there are specific periods of high traffic, Earth orbiting satellites will be able to spot these and notify transport hubs. These transport hubs will be able to notify vehicles in the surrounding area and divert them to a shorter or more efficient route.

When an accident does occur, the vehicles involved can send an automatic notification to the local transport hub. The severity of the accident will be known almost immediately so that, if needed, emergency services can be dispatched. GNSS technology will ensure the incident’s location is immediately known to the emergency services.

The Use of Drones

There are two clear uses of drones in the transport industry of the future.

First up, we have delivery drones. These will cover everything from fast food to important packages. These drones will be tracked to ensure the successful delivery of packages. They will also communicate with their surroundings to ensure there’s no chance of a collision. The precise location of delivery and monitoring of battery life will also require the use of satellite communications.

If road accidents do ever occur, ambulance drones could become the ideal choice of first responder. These can be deployed to attend the incident and offer vital aid to assist those involved. These will utilise both GNSS and satellite communications to ensure the immediate transfer of data as well as accurate navigation information.

Vital Statistics for the Future of the Smart Transport & Logistics Sector

It’s one thing making predictions for the future of the smart transport and logistics sector, it’s another supporting these predictions with statistics and data.

In a recent report, Inmarsat collected data from 100 large global transportation companies. 44% of the companies surveyed stated that they’re prioritising environmental monitoring as a key area for IoT deployment. Further to this, 15% explained that they had improved their environmental sustainability as a result of IoT deployment. 65% of those mentioned above expect to become more sustainable in the future as a result of this technology.

The importance of emerging technology extends beyond businesses becoming more sustainable. As transport demands increase over time, it’s expected that global CO2 emissions from transport will increase by 60% by 2050. This increase is based on the assumption that the use of green technology in transport will be more widespread. If this is not the case, this figure is believed to be significantly higher.

Current Uses of Space Data in the Smart Transport & Logistics Sector

There are plenty of businesses already making strides in utilising space data to impact the smart transport and logistics sector. Here are a number of the projects which have received support from ESA-BA in this area:

Monitoring Hazardous Goods – SaMoLoSa

SaMoLoSa tracks and monitors the transport of hazardous goods by unpowered assets. This type of transport is difficult to monitor in real time. The project makes use of satellite data to alleviate this. This technology will monitor set parameters input to complement stakeholder news and requirements. This tracking will ensure a safe and reliable journey.

This goes beyond simple loss prevention. The sheer amount of information gathered will help optimise logistics and identify areas for improvement.

Winter Road Maintenance – Assist WRM

The winter road maintenance sector is worth an estimated €75 million in Europe alone. Considering this, there’s a real opportunity for space data to innovate current processes and technology. The Assist WRM project looks to use satellite navigation technology and Earth orbiting satellite imagery to provide a full (and potentially automatic) control of winter maintenance equipment and optimisation of operations to reduce manual intervention. Allowing operators to focus on simply driving the vehicle.

Intelligent Cargo Monitoring – RTICM

The RTICM project looks to offer a cost-effective way of monitoring and controlling the transport supply chain of high value containers around the world. This covers all modes of transport and aims to help stakeholders make real-time corrective actions to prevent loss and improve efficiency. The project uses global satellite communications and satellite navigation for both tracking and data transmission.

Automated On-Demand Courier Service – TeleRetail

TeleRetail is developing an automated delivery service which uses courier robots for urban and sub-urban use. These self-driving vehicles are ordered by a user on-demand and delivers the products locally on the same day. This technology will allow for cost effective, energy preserving and space efficient urban logistics.

The project will use:

• Satellite navigation to help with journey accuracy
• Satellite communication to aid with asset tracking
• Earth observation satellites to assist with urban mapping

Funding Opportunities for the Smart Transport & Logistics Sector

ESA Business Applications offers funding and support to businesses in the smart transport and logistics sector looking to utilise space enabled technologies for new commercial services. This is more than a simple funding opportunity. Businesses will receive zero-equity funding, project management assistance, access to our network as well as the credibility of the ESA-BA name. Explore our funding opportunities here.

Critical infrastructure refers to systems and assets which are vital to the running of a country. These systems are considered so vital that their incapacity would have a debilitating impact on security, the economy, public health or safety. With this considered, there is plenty of potential for space data to help enable the maintenance and protection of these systems. Here, we shine a spotlight on the role satellite technology plays in the safety and security of critical infrastructures, as well as potential areas for innovation and current technology already making a difference.

Why Does Space Data Matter in the Safety and Security of Critical Infrastructures?

Critical infrastructure services are relied upon for many. This means the safety and security of these are imperative. These services must be able to operate, even in remote locations, regardless of conditions. An overview of localised conditions and changes throughout vast land areas or cities over time is vital in the continuous maintenance and operation of these services. This is only possible as a result of satellite technology.

Potential Uses of Space Data in the Critical Infrastructure Sector

So, how could innovative space technology be applied for the safety and security of various critical infrastructures? Here are a few examples:

Seawater Desalination Monitoring

Today, there are over 15,000 desalination plants in the world. These are used to offer an alternative water supply sourced from the sea. The plants work to remove the salt from sea water and make it drinkable. These plants discharge generated waste back into the sea. This discharge, also known as brine, has a high salinity level as well as a high concentration of other suspended particles. This can have a negative impact on the water quality surrounding the discharge point.

Earth orbiting satellite imagery can help reduce the environmental impact of these plants by monitoring seawater quality – allowing us to take preventative actions against ecological and biological impacts.

Renewable Energy Forecasting

With such a strong push towards eco-friendly energy, it’s vital to know how much energy will be produced from renewable sources to ensure we reduce fossil fuel usage as much as possible. The weather plays a huge role in the level of energy produced from renewable sources. This is where Earth orbiting satellite data can be utilised for maximum effect. Highly accurate weather forecasting will help solar, wind and hydro energy output predictions.

Power Line and Pylon Monitoring

When a pylon or power line is interfered with, it can cause a great amount of disruption and even potential danger to those nearby. Fallen trees, human interference, snow and pylon displacement are all common cause factors which require attention. There are 10 million kilometres of power lines in the EU, making it difficult to spot disruption before it’s too late. With the introduction of Earth orbiting satellite monitoring, hazards can be resolved swiftly and even proactively prevented.

Gas and Oil Pipeline Monitoring

85% of the natural gas used in Europe comes via pipelines. Any major issues encountered need to be resolved as quickly as possible. The ability to prevent issues before they occur will be invaluable. Pipeline damage is usually caused as a result of construction activity and ground movement. Satellite imagery will be able to monitor these and send warnings to the user so preventative action can be taken. Additionally, sensors on the pipes themselves could regularly send data reports and communications to satellites, allowing for a better understanding of their condition.

Search and Rescue Emergency Services

In the event that a person is missing in remote areas, such as at sea or in mountainous regions, satellite data will enable a fleet of drones to quickly search a large area and locate the missing person. Satcoms will allow for communications while Earth orbiting maps with GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems) will help search difficult terrain with ease.

Bridge Stability

Long span bridges are vital in transport networks. Due to the high volume of people and vehicles which use these each day, their safe and continuous operation is imperative. Earth orbiting satellite imagery will enable accurate assessment of the stability of the ground surrounding bridges. The assistance of GNSS will help in the monitoring of structural integrity of bridges.

Rail Networks

Rail network infrastructures are highly valuable assets. Any downtime can cause huge disruption. Earth orbiting imagery can help detect movements in terrain which could potentially lead to landslides. GNSS data can also measure local ground stability. This technology enables preventative and precautionary action from rail network operators, ultimately protecting passengers as well as minimising disruption.

Dangerous Goods Monitoring

When dangerous goods are transported via unpowered assets like rail tank cars, satellite technology will allow for the monitoring of the critical parameters to ensure their safety. GNSS and satcom tech will allow for location tracking and communication with shipping companies to help with loss prevention and the mitigation of any potential issues. Companies will be aware of the exact condition of their goods at all times.

Road Condition Monitoring

Earth orbiting satellites can enable the monitoring of road conditions in less populated areas, notifying local authorities of any dangerous and unusual events such as fallen trees, large potholes, sinkholes or landslides. This will enable for quick resolutions and safety precautions to be put in place.

Telemedicine and Remote Care

Hospitals have an ongoing struggle concerning the balance of patient wellbeing and available bed space. With the use of satellite technology, doctors will be able to carry out remote health check-ups and diagnostics. This could have many applications as well as an abundance of benefits which reach beyond simple bed availability. The ageing population can be monitored in the comfort of their own home and without the need of disruptive visits to the hospital. Healthcare professionals will save both time and money as a result of these innovations. Satcoms will be the main enabler of this form of technology.

How is Space Data Currently Being Used in the Safety and Security of Critical Infrastructures?

There are plenty of businesses already making use of space innovations to drive forward the critical infrastructure sector. Here are a few of the brands currently being supported by ESA-BA for this.

Maintenance and Recovery of High Voltage Electricity Transport System – GridWatch

GridWatch is offering a two-pronged approach to their business – offering insights to those in charge of the maintenance of power infrastructures and those in charge of network operations and energy dispatching.

The company use satellite data to continuously monitor the status of pylons and alarm those responsible of any anomalies. This reduces the need for site inspections and increases knowledge of pylons.

The business can also provide accurate information on line transmission capacities. This helps support energy dispatch operations and reduces the risk of lines overloading. This technology will decrease the possibility of power line outages and enables the regularity and predictability of energy coverage.

Satellite Monitoring of Hazardous Goods – SaMoLoSa

The SaMoLoSa project tracks and monitors the critical parameters of hazardous goods transported via unpowered assets – like rail tank cars and intermodal tank containers. This technology will be notified of key stakeholder needs and will monitor these required parameters to ensure a safe and reliable journey. This information will offer more than simple loss control. The volume of information offered will aid in the optimisation of business logistics while also identifying areas for improvement in a business supply chain.

Pipeline Integrity Management – Orbital Eye

Orbital Eye looked to make use of space assets for the monitoring of the integrity and safety of gas & oil transmission pipelines. The integration of space services and technologies enabled improved effectiveness of monitoring and inspection as well as increased safety and a reduction in operating costs for pipeline operators.

This technology enables:

 ·         Detection of third party interference

 ·         Identification of ground elevation changes like erosion or landslides

 ·         Monitoring of pipeline conditions

 ·         Guidance of ground staff to exact location of issues encountered

Automated Urban On-Demand Courier Service – TeleRetail

TeleRetail is looking to develop an automated delivery service to aid urban logistics. The self-driving courier robots aim to fulfil rapidly growing demand for cost effective, energy preserving, space efficient urban and sub-urban logistics services. The business will rely upon satellite asset tracking, GNSS satellite navigation and nanosatellite imagery technology for its autonomous driving and on-board sensors.

Structural Health Monitoring of Bridges – GEOSHM

GEOSHM is a company which looks to offer necessary data in real time for bridge owners and operators to better understand the maintenance needs and operational insights of their assets. The company uses GNSS and Earth orbiting satellites to deliver performance data and information which can be recorded and tracked by operators.

How Can ESA-BA Help Your Business?

The European Space Agency are offering support and funding to businesses looking to help aid the safety and security of critical infrastructures. We offer more than just funding, here’s how we can help enable growth for your business:

• Zero-equity fully funded activities up to €250K per project
• Technical and commercial guidance
• Access to our vast network and partners
• Use of the ESA brand for your service

Find out more and apply to our current critical infrastructures funding opportunity here.