Amber is expected to be the first of a constellation of satellites to provide Maritime Domain Awareness data to users. Using unique, patented technology, the system will geolocate and demodulate radio frequency data from ships around the world, including listening for the presence or absence of a ships Automatic Identification System (AIS).

Amber forms part of the Satellite Applications Catapult’s In-Orbit Demonstration programme, also known as IOD. The In-Orbit Demonstration Programme offers partners a fast-track, low-cost opportunity to test their service or technology on a CubeSat mission (a small satellite ranging from the size of a loaf of bread to the size of microwave) launched into low Earth orbit. IOD helps accelerate to ‘proof of concept’ stage by providing an affordable in-orbit testbed and a range of operational and business support services to exploit the commercial potential of the mission. 

This episode is hosted by the Satellite Applications Catapult's Head of Access to Space, Mike Curtis-Rouse. Mike is joined by Nick Marshall, Project Manager of Amber at the Satellite Applications Catapult, John Beckner, CEO of Horizon Technologies, and Peter Anderson, CCO at AAC Clyde Space.

Produced by Story Ninety-Four in Oxford.