Small Data That Has a Big Impact.
People want more and more data on demand and in real time. This has driven the Satellite industry to develop high speed lower cost broadband connectivity. With companies such as Starlink and Oneweb now providing connections of 100s Mbps globally at competitive rates.
However, it’s essential not to overlook, and forget, the significance of small bursts of data transmitted via longstanding satellite networks, such as Iridium and Globalstar. The use of narrowband and small terminals deployed around the globe have had a profound impact beyond their limited bandwidth for many years. This is particularly good news for humanity as the ability to transfer small messages plays a significant role in pollution control and climate change management and mitigation efforts for future generations.
One huge benefit of only sending necessary small messages to monitor assets is that the modem hardware is also smaller, cheaper and also low power. This enables the devices to be discrete, easy to install and often powered by batteries or compact solar panels. Modules can be easily integrated into existing monitoring systems, with ongoing low operational costs and flexible monthly plans.
Satellite modules have been integrated into tracking collars and tags on endangered species to provide crucial information about their movements, feeding habits, and migration patterns. This data helps conservationists understand human impacts on their habitats and combat activities like poaching.
Other small satellite devices have been connected to detectors and sensors tohelp prevent sewage overflow events by providing real-time data to sewer system operators, reducing pollution in surrounding waters.
In monitoring climate change, satellite trackers are deployed on icebergs to track their movement and melting. Autonomous underwater vehicles gather ocean health data, map the seafloor, and search for wreckage, with data transmitted via satellite.
Satellite IoT also plays a vital role in various sectors. For example, it enables communication between electric vehicle charging stations and management systems, enhances efficiency in truck fleet management, and optimises agricultural practices by monitoring soil moisture and crop conditions.
Although it may be perceived utility companies require large amounts of bandwidth with constant/ always on connections, many combine small data sets alongside large VSAT networks to provide actionable intelligence, such as identifying underperforming solar panels or predicting power output from alternative energy sources more accurately.
By utilising specific small message protocols and bespoke Satellite services, vital information can be gathered and analysed from all over the globe to tackle climate change on a large scale. Not all requirements need to have expensive, high speed connectivity to have a big impact, now or in the future.
