<Ul> <Li> AIS (Automatic Identification System). The AIS - Receiving stations that compose the MarineTraffic network pick - up such data and share it with the MarineTraffic central database . </Li> </Ul> <Li> AIS (Automatic Identification System). The AIS - Receiving stations that compose the MarineTraffic network pick - up such data and share it with the MarineTraffic central database . </Li> <P> All vessels equipped with an AIS transponder emit AIS - data which can be received by any AIS - receiving unit provided it is within range . AIS message packets are encoded in NMEA sentences (64 - bit plain text). A sample is shown below: . </P> <P> The contents of any incoming NMEA sentence can be decoded . This way, information on the following three basic sections can be deducted: Dynamic Information, such as the subject vessel's position, speed, current status, course and rate of turn . Static Information, such as the subject vessel's name, IMO number, MMSI number, dimensions . Voyage - specific Information, such as the subject vessel's destination, ETA and draught . The central database constantly receives and processes large amounts of AIS - data and stores the most important part of it (together with geographic information on a multitude of ports and areas, vessels' photos and other details). Current positions and / or tracks of vessels are displayed on the MarineTraffic Live Map while Positions History, Vessel Details, Port Conditions and Statistics can be easily found using our dedicated web pages . </P>

Who do you think is the typical user of marinetraffic