Enhanced Cargo and Vehicle Security Through Low-Earth Orbiting Satellite Communications

Low-Earth orbiting (LEO) satellite communications technology offers a new alternative to track and monitor transportation assets to increase operating efficiency and enhance cargo security. The affordable, low-power VHF communications equipment and the global coverage of LEO satellites provide a solution for tracking and communicating with mobile assets such as trailers and cargo containers. With the successful launch of the first two satellites in April 1995, the ORBCOMM Network is the first commercial LEO system and will begin trailer tracking and vehicle monitoring services in 1996. This paper will describe the ORBCOMM satellite communications system and will discuss the tracking and monitoring services ORBCOMM will offer to the transportation industry.