Using the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Marine Cadastre tool, one can access 16 years’ worth of daily ship activity data, including “transit density” maps generated from a year’s worth of information showing each vessel’s cumulative routes. Data is gathered exclusively from terrestrial observation sites situated along the United States’ coastal regions.
After gathering all 2023 transit dependency maps, I utilized Geographic Information System (GIS) software, specifically QGIS, to visualize marine visitor patterns for last year.
The maps provide a concise and visual representation of electrical information. Without landmasses, the ships’ trajectories evoke long-exposure photographs of sizzling sparklers, high-energy subatomic collisions, and delicate fibers of optic cable.
NOAA’s data visualized on a map by Jon Keegan, showcasing the beauty of public information.
NOAA Data Unfolds on Map Designed by Jon Keegan
NOAA Data Maps to New Heights: Jon Keegan & Beautiful Public Data
Data from NOAA; Image by Jon Keegan / Beautiful Public Data
Upon closer examination, one might discern unconventional geometric configurations, comprising concentric circles or faint gridlike markings, that seem to defy explanation. Some areas serve as fishing grounds, while others facilitate scientific surveys that chart the seafloor’s topography, or track boat traffic traveling to and from offshore oil platforms, predominantly located along Louisiana’s Gulf Coast.
Hiding in plain sight
As the idea of a near-real-time global tracking system sounds like a revolutionary innovation, until the reality sets in that maintaining secrecy over ship movements and cargo becomes a daunting challenge.
