The DORY project was initiated with the aim of developing a CubeSat antenna to capture AIS (Automatic Identification System) signals from space. AIS is used to determine the position and identification of ships. However, it is often manipulated in illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing (IUU fishing), e.g. by deliberately deactivating transponders. Reliable satellite-based monitoring of these signals can help to detect and combat such activities.

The DORY project was launched as a concept study to create a basis for future developments.

The aim is to develop a compact, cost-efficient and modularly expandable CubeSat antenna that receives AIS signals from low earth orbit (LEO). A particular focus is on the miniaturization of the antenna in order to optimize its application possibilities on CubeSat platforms.

Such a solution could enable scalable and cost-efficient global monitoring of shipping traffic from space.

The development of an optimized antenna design is intended to create the basis for future satellite missions for maritime surveillance. In the long term, DORY will serve as the starting point for a further developable CubeSat payload that can be deployed in larger numbers to ensure comprehensive coverage of global AIS data. By combining AIS data with other sources of information, unauthorized ship activities can be identified more precisely. 

In this way, DORY should help to increase transparency and safety in global shipping and combat illegal maritime activities, particularly in the area of IUU fishing, more effectively.