AIS Base Stations

A shore-based station that provides identity, time synchronization, and text messages, which report (message 4) every ten seconds and are identified by a 00MIDxxxxx MMSI. These stations can also transmit AIS ATON Reports (message 21) and Application Specific Messages (ASM, message 6 and message 8) for meteorological or hydrological information, marine safety information, etc. (see the IALA Application Specific Message Collection). The Coast Guard Light List maintains a list of U.S. stations that also act as AIS ATONs or transmit ASMs.

In the United States, these stations are solely operated by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) in the Nationwide Automatic Identification System, a nationwide network that supports all USCG missions and is designed to enhance the Coast Guard's maritime domain awareness of vessels operating in or approaching the nation's waterways, ports, and infrastructure. This network, which comprises 130-plus base stations and 150-plus USACE inland stations, collects over 120 million AIS messages daily and shares information with other government agencies, industry, academia, and coastal planners.

To support ocean planning activities pursuant to the Executive Order Regarding the Ocean Policy to Advance the Economic, Security, and Environmental Interests of the United States, the Energy Policy Act, the National Environmental Policy Act, the Rivers and Harbors Act, and the Coastal Zone Management Act.

Bureau Code: 006:48, Program Code: 006:055