International Mobile Satellite Organization

The International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) is the intergovernmental organization established under the provisions of the Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization, that oversees certain public satellite safety and security communication services. These public services include: services for maritime safety within the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), distress alerting, search and rescue co-ordination communications, maritime safety information (MSI) broadcasts and general communications. The Organization has a form of public-private partnership contract with Inmarsat Ltd through a Public Services Agreement which sets out the obligations of Inmarsat Ltd in respect of the relevant public services, as well as defining the oversight mechanism that exists between Inmarsat and IMSO. IMSO also acts as the International LRIT Coordinator, appointed by IMO to coordinate the establishment and operation of the international system for the Long Range Identification and Tracking of Ships (LRIT) worldwide. IMSO works closely with IMO, ITU and other interested international organizations, as well as Inmarsat Ltd itself, in developing recommendations, standards and operational practices that support and may improve the public services. IMSO operates through an Assembly integrated by its Member State, the Directorate head-quartered in London and an Advisory Committee.