Vessel Identification System
Encyclopedia
A Vessel Identification System allows users of radar
to see a ship’s name, IMO (International Maritime Organization
) number, course, speed, destination, and sometimes flag and dimensions, next to a ship-like icon on a computer or radar screen. A comparatively new innovation designed to improve inter-vessel communication, reduce reliance on visual contact and VHF radio chatter, and enable more efficient traffic control and reduce the incidence of collision.
Radar
Radar is an object-detection system which uses radio waves to determine the range, altitude, direction, or speed of objects. It can be used to detect aircraft, ships, spacecraft, guided missiles, motor vehicles, weather formations, and terrain. The radar dish or antenna transmits pulses of radio...
to see a ship’s name, IMO (International Maritime Organization
International Maritime Organization
The International Maritime Organization , formerly known as the Inter-Governmental Maritime Consultative Organization , was established in Geneva in 1948, and came into force ten years later, meeting for the first time in 1959...
) number, course, speed, destination, and sometimes flag and dimensions, next to a ship-like icon on a computer or radar screen. A comparatively new innovation designed to improve inter-vessel communication, reduce reliance on visual contact and VHF radio chatter, and enable more efficient traffic control and reduce the incidence of collision.