Innovation

CetaOrbit

A research project backed by the European Space Agency (ESA) that brings satellite data into everyday maritime operations. CetaOrbit connects space-based environmental intelligence with Cetasol's iHelm platform, giving fleet managers better tools to save fuel, cut emissions and make smarter decisions at sea.

Funded under ESA ARTES 4.0 Downstream Applications, Programme Line BASS.

Project at a glance

CetaOrbit is a feasibility study under ESA's ARTES 4.0 Downstream Applications programme. It explores how satellite Earth Observation, GNSS and satellite communication can be integrated into Cetasol's iHelm platform to deliver a hybrid, space-enabled decision support system for the maritime industry.

Programme

ESA ARTES 4.0 Downstream Applications, Programme Line BASS

Activity type

Feasibility study

Project lead

Cetasol AB

Focus area

Space-enabled maritime decision support

The challenge we're addressing

The maritime sector is under growing pressure to cut emissions and operate more efficiently across all environmental conditions. International regulation, including the IMO's decarbonisation targets and high fuel prices, has created clear demand for cost-effective digital tools. Most existing tools, however, lack real-time environmental insight and depend on high-bandwidth connectivity that is rarely available offshore. CetaOrbit closes that gap by bringing global satellite data into everyday operations.

Why space data matters for shipping

The maritime industry is under growing pressure to lower greenhouse gas emissions, comply with new international regulations and reduce operating costs. Most digital tools available today rely on land-based connectivity and limited data sources. CetaOrbit changes that by tapping into global satellite infrastructure, providing vessels with continuous environmental awareness no matter where they operate.

Satellite Earth Observation

CetaOrbit uses data from Copernicus satellites (Sentinel-1, Sentinel-3, Sentinel-5P) to capture real-time information about wave height, sea surface temperature, ocean currents, wind patterns and air quality, giving vessels a rich picture of the environment around them.

Global Positioning (GNSS)

High-precision positioning through Galileo ensures accurate route tracking and performance measurement, even in congested or remote maritime corridors.

Satellite Communication

When terrestrial networks are out of reach, satellite connectivity keeps vessels and the cloud in sync. CetaOrbit uses on-demand satellite links to reduce costs while maintaining continuous data flow.

How it works

CetaOrbit extends Cetasol's existing iHelm platform with three layers of space-based data. Onboard sensors continue to capture engine performance, speed and fuel flow. Satellite feeds add real-time context about weather, waves, currents and air quality. The combined data flows into a digital twin model of each vessel, where AI algorithms turn it into clear recommendations for crew and fleet managers.

Smarter voyage planning

By combining live environmental data with onboard sensor readings, CetaOrbit helps plan routes that save fuel and avoid unfavourable conditions.

Real-time performance insight

Crew and fleet managers receive clear, actionable recommendations, not raw data, allowing faster and better-informed decisions at sea and onshore.

Lower emissions, easier compliance

Accurate emissions tracking and automated reporting help fleet managers meet IMO, EU ETS and CII requirements without added administrative burden.

Who benefits

CetaOrbit is designed for the operators who need decision support the most, and for the bodies that oversee a cleaner maritime sector.

Small vessel operators

Pilot boats, tugs and smaller coastal ferries that need affordable, easy-to-use performance tools.

Medium commercial shipping

Short-sea and inland cargo, tankers and ferries looking for fuel savings, route optimisation and compliance support.

Ports and regulators

Port, city, national and EU authorities that rely on accurate, transparent emissions data.

How the project unfolds

The feasibility study is structured in five connected phases, moving from market and user needs through to a validated proof of concept tested with a real customer fleet.

01
Desirability and viability
Map customer needs, business model and market potential across vessel segments.
02
Data integration and technical feasibility
Define the architecture that fuses onboard sensor data with satellite EO, GNSS and SatCom feeds.
03
Proof of concept and simulation
Model-in-the-loop and software-in-the-loop testing to validate the hybrid decision support system.
04
Customer pilot
Trial the solution with a real customer fleet to gather feedback and measure performance.
05
Final review
Consolidate simulation results, market strategy and environmental impact into the final deliverables.

Expected outcomes

A space-enabled decision support layer for the iHelm platform
Stronger fuel savings and emissions reduction beyond what onboard data alone can deliver
Reliable operation in remote and offshore areas with limited terrestrial connectivity
Easier reporting against IMO, EU ETS, MRV and CII requirements

Supporting global sustainability goals

CetaOrbit directly supports UN Sustainable Development Goals 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), 13 (Climate Action) and 14 (Life Below Water). By reducing fuel consumption and emissions across commercial fleets, the project contributes to the IMO's target of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and aligns with the EU Emissions Trading Scheme for maritime transport.

The system relies on existing satellite infrastructure and standard onboard sensors, meaning no additional environmental footprint is required for deployment. This makes it accessible and scalable for fleet managers of all sizes, from coastal ferries to international cargo vessels.

Interested in CetaOrbit?

Get in touch to learn more about the project and how space-enabled analytics can benefit your fleet.