Sternula provides AIS 2.0, a satellite‑based connectivity service that extends the Automatic Identification System using VHF Data Exchange System (VDES) over a low‑Earth‑orbit micro‑satellite constellation. The platform delivers secure, affordable, global data links for ships, maritime authorities, coast guards, and service providers, integrating with existing AIS equipment and supporting advanced maritime services.
Funding
$1.1M raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
Founders
Product
Problem
Maritime vessels and coastal authorities rely on traditional VHF AIS networks that are limited to line‑of‑sight range, vulnerable to interference, and lack secure, global coverage. This hampers real‑time ship‑to‑shore communication, safety monitoring, and the deployment of advanced maritime services, especially in remote or open‑ocean areas.
Solution
Sternula offers AIS 2.0, a satellite‑based connectivity service that extends the Automatic Identification System using the VHF Data Exchange System (VDES) over a Low‑Earth‑Orbit micro‑satellite constellation. The solution provides secure, affordable, and worldwide data links between ships, maritime authorities, coast guards, and industrial service providers. By leveraging both satellite and terrestrial VDE‑S networks, Sternula enables continuous, high‑integrity transmission of AIS messages, vessel telemetry, and value‑added services without reliance on shore‑based radio infrastructure. The platform integrates with existing AIS equipment, allowing seamless upgrades to VDE‑TER capabilities and supporting standardized protocols defined by IALA, IMO, and ITU.
Target Audience
Primary customers are maritime authorities, coast guard agencies, vessel owners, shipping companies, and maritime service providers seeking secure, global connectivity for AIS and related data services.
Features
- Global LEO micro‑satellite constellation delivering VDE‑S coverage across all oceans
- End‑to‑end encryption and authentication for secure AIS data exchange
- Hybrid satellite/terrestrial routing to optimize latency and cost
- Compatibility with existing AIS transponders via VDE‑TER upgrades
- Support for advanced maritime services such as pollution monitoring, traffic management, and remote diagnostics
- Compliance with international VDES standards (IALA, IMO, ITU)