Satellite communication networks
As soon as you start researching communication systems for your future navigations, the names Iridium, Inmarsat or Globalstar come up... But who are they?
We invite you to get to know them better and understand their differences. Indeed, as a supplier of on-board communication system solutions, the Advanced Tracking team works closely with all three satellite communication networks.
INMARSAT
Let's start with InmarsatThis is the historic network, since it was the first to provide access to individual telephone connections via satellite, thanks to a handful of satellites in geostationary orbit. These are located at an altitude of almost 36,000 km above the earth, and move synchronously with the planet, remaining constantly above the same point on the surface. Coverage from these satellites is therefore not total, but it is highly reliable and open to a wide range of terminals, enabling voice and high-speed data transfer depending on the equipment. One of the solutions widely used with the Inmarsat network is the Inmarsat Fleet One. This equipment makes satellite connectivity accessible and affordable. It offers a wide range of functions, including telephone, SMS, GPS position, emergency activation, email, photo transfer, social network connection, weather reception (Grib files) and tracking on an optional geolocation interface. This solution gives you peace of mind during your navigations.
More information on Inmarsat Fleet One: Click here
IRIDIUM
Unlike Inmarsat, the coverage of the Iridium satellite network is total, even at the poles.
As its coverage is global, the Iridium network is mainly used for voice data transmission, particularly for emergency systems. This is why Iridium is associated with Units geolocation systems such as the ALIVE beacon, which is always connected to the 66 satellites in low orbit (780 km altitude) that make up the new Iridium NEXT constellation. These satellites relay communications to the ground station operating the network, which also provides a high-speed Internet connection. This technology opens up a whole range of communication and geolocation possibilities, both on land and at sea, at prices that vary according to use.
Whether for voice communication, downloading small weather files via a satellite phone or other simple fixed medium, or for heavier data requiring high-speed Internet access, the Iridium network is adaptable to your use and your terminals. It offers flexibility and, above all, reliability.
One of Iridium's flagship solutions for round-the-world navigators isIridium GO. This latest technology enables you to communicate via your smartphone or tablet in voice or data mode anywhere on the planet.
More information on Iridium GO: Click here
GLOBALSTAR
Finally, Globalstar is based on a constellation of 48 satellites in low earth orbit (at an altitude of 1,414 km) to provide complete coverage, except for polar latitudes. Unlike the Iridium network, which uses inter-satellite traffic, each satellite in the Globalstar system interchanges directly with terrestrial telecommunications networks, which means that each earth station must be within range of each satellite.
Like the Inmarsat and Iridium networks, both voice and data services are offered. The Globalstar network is mainly used for our geolocation beacon solutions, such as tracking unit Smartone C or Smartone Solar, particularly for professional users, to geolocate containers, trailers, boats or vehicles. A system designed for intelligent management of fixed or mobile assets.
More information on tracking unit Smartone C : Click here
More information on the SmartOne Solar beacon: Click here
These three satellite communication networks are therefore essential for communications on board ships sailing off the coast, beyond the reach of terrestrial antennas. The two main networks, Inmarsat and Iridium, each offer specific features, such as full or partial coverage, which you need to take into account according to your navigation zone.
For more information, please contact the Advanced Tracking team
Photo credit: Author OpenClipartVectors