“Emergesat is a tool that allows for the establishment of information in crisis situations” – Mrs. Nicole Guedj, French Secretary of State for Victims’ Rights, remarked. By utilizing information from satellites, this device will alert rescue teams to effectively manage crises anywhere in the world.
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Model of an Emergesat |
With dimensions of 160 x 200 x 150 cm and the ability to be compacted, this device is highly portable and can be stored in helicopters or the cargo hold of any type of commercial aircraft. Additionally, it is waterproof and can withstand even the harshest weather conditions. Essentially, the device is used for communication, but it can also transport water treatment equipment and medical tools. It will serve as an effective support tool for ground relief teams such as civil security organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and international forces.
Satellite communication is the only means of contact when infrastructure or ground equipment is damaged. Emergesat utilizes satellite technologies: earth observation and global positioning. The central part of the communication system includes a transmitter and receiver that allow for high-intensity communication in any area worldwide. Its parabolic antenna enables automatic and rapid signal reception. A ground transmission station is connected to this satellite system, creating a complete Global Information System (GIS) network. Emergesat will exchange data with centers such as hospitals, airports, and meteorological centers, as well as establish an information network among rescue teams.
The project was initiated in 1996 by Mrs. Nicole Guedj, allowing for timely management of disaster occurrences. This can be seen as an effective means of protecting human lives. In January 2005, French President Jacques Chirac presented this project to the United Nations, which was approved by UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan. The Emergesat model was showcased at the World Summit on the Information Society in Tunisia in November 2005. The first Emergesats are expected to be in operation by the end of the first quarter of 2006. Quickly, the device has been embraced by Air France, the Institute of Space Medicine and Physics, and the Toulouse Institute of Computer Research. Mrs. Nicole Guedj stated that she is currently continuing to work with several other partners. Regarding the development of this humanitarian device, she hopes to establish a fund to support impoverished countries in need and NGOs to acquire this equipment.
Kim Vân (Documents from the French Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City)
