The Port of Corpus Christi in Texas — the third-largest seaport in the United States by tonnage — is embracing advanced technology to improve real-time visibility, safety, and operational efficiency. The port has introduced OPTICS (Overall Port Tactical Information System), an AI-powered digital twin that uses real-world data to create a live virtual replica of the port and track ship movements more accurately.
Built on Unity 3D and integrated with Esri’s ArcGIS, OPTICS provides continuously updated vessel positions, enhancing coordination across one of America’s busiest energy export hubs. In 2024 alone, the port handled over 200 million tons of shipments, including 130 million tons of crude oil.
To bridge data gaps during satellite-to-radio transitions, the system uses a machine learning model trained on a year of ship movement data to predict vessel positions every 2–4 minutes, ensuring smooth and realistic visualizations. This predictive capability significantly improves navigation safety, especially for large vessels carrying flammable cargo.
Beyond real-time tracking, the port aims to expand OPTICS to include collision prediction tools and advanced simulation features, further enhancing maritime safety and emergency preparedness.
By integrating AI, automation, and 3D modelling, the Port of Corpus Christi is setting a new standard for digital transformation in U.S. maritime infrastructure.
