In June 2022, Astrocast, a Swiss nanosatellite Internet of Things (IoT) network operator, partnered with ArrowSpot, an Israel-based technology company that provides track and trace solutions for supply chain and fleet management.
On December 8th, 2022, Astrocast and ArrowSpot announced a multi-million-dollar contract to start mass production of ArrowSpot’s ArrowTrack SAT device.
ArrowSpot utilized the Astrocast IoT Network to create the ArrowTrack SAT device, which employs a cost-effective, low-power, secure, and direct-to-satellite connection.
Read the complete story below to learn more.
What is the Satellite Internet of Things (IoT)?
Satellite Internet of Things (IoT) involves the integration of IoT devices, such as sensors and trackers, with satellite networks to enable data communication and transfer of information over long distances.
It can reach remote and hard-to-reach areas where traditional communication infrastructures are limited or not available.
Satellite IoT operates by transmitting data from IoT devices to a satellite in orbit, which then relays the data back to a ground station, where it can be analyzed and processed.
Furthermore, Satellite IoT enables a wide range of applications, such as:
• Real-time tracking of shipping containers, trucks, and other assets for supply chain management in remote areas
• Monitoring environmental factors such as weather conditions, air quality, and water quality to aid in disaster management and environmental protection
• Providing internet connectivity to underserved and remote areas for essential services such as telemedicine, education, and e-commerce
• Precision agriculture through the collection of data on soil moisture, temperature, and crop growth to optimize operations and improve crop yields
• Real-time tracking of ships and aircraft to enable search and rescue operations during emergencies in maritime and aviation safety
The Multi-million dollar Contract
Astrocast aims to provide 100% global coverage for IoT through its innovative constellation of nanosatellites and is backed by major commercial and government agencies such as Adit Ventures, Airbus SE’s venture arm, and the European Space Agency (ESA).
Fabien Jordan, CEO of Astrocast, explained that their current 18-satellite constellation, which is distributed across four polar orbits, is already well-equipped to cater to the requirements of their primary markets, including agritech, shipping container tracking, and utilities.
However, their new multi-million-dollar joint venture with ArrowSpot, a leading provider of supply chain visibility and monitoring solutions, aims to develop a new IoT solution to track assets across the globe.
The hybrid connectivity solution, called ArrowTrack SAT, will combine cellular and satellite communication network access to provide full visibility of supply chains and fleets at an affordable price.
The technology will allow ArrowSpot's customers to achieve global management of their assets and reduce potentially harmful impacts on cargo. Clients working with ArrowSpot include ZIM Shipping Line and Oceanex Inc. intermodal transportation services.
Arrowspot and Astrocast have developed a prototype and a reliable, scalable production device within a year, which has been tested and proven to be ready for mass production.
The solution will provide optimized data protocols, bidirectional communication options, and low energy consumption, which are critical factors to consider when developing and safeguarding an IoT business case.
Furthermore, Jordan added, “their[our] joint innovation will enhance supply chain visibility and transparency globally.”
Insight into the Product
ArrowTrack SAT is a hybrid asset tracking device that supports several location tracking systems such as:
• GPS (Global Positioning System)
• GLONASS (Global Navigation Satellite System)
• BeiDou/Compass (Chinese Satellite Navigation System)
• Galileo (European Global Navigation Satellite System)
• Japanese QZSS (Quasi-Zenith Satellite System)
In terms of communication methods, ArrowTrack SAT supports several options, including cellular communication using Cat M1 (Category M1), Cat NB1 (Category Narrowband 1), and 2G (Second Generation) networks.
ArrowTrack SAT also supports Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite communication and Long Range (LoRa) communication, and Bluetooth 5.0 technology for wireless communication.
Moreover, the device can receive data from other sensors and transmit it via cellular or satellite communication.
This makes it a powerful and versatile asset-tracking device that can be used for a variety of applications, including tracking and monitoring of assets such as vehicles, equipment, and cargo.
How does Astrocast’s Sat IoT technology works?
With satellite IoT technology, companies can now have a cost-effective, reliable, and efficient way to track and monitor their assets, regardless of location.
To establish communication via the Astrocast Network, system integrators or device manufacturers must integrate the Astronode S modem, along with a small L-band antenna, into the device and configure the application.
Once the above integration is completed, the device can send its IoT data to Astrocast's satellites using a store-and-forward approach.
The data transmitted by the device is then downloaded from the satellites to a network of ground stations and eventually to Astrocast's servers, which are accessible via an online portal or Application Programming Interfaces (APIs).
Low-power consumption is critical for direct-to-satellite IoT devices to ensure the devices can run autonomously for longer time periods without human intervention. For instance, tracking and moving assets, such as containers, animals, and machinery.
Conclusion
The fourth industrial revolution has brought forth a new era of technological advancements that are changing the way we live and work.
The use of satellites and new space technology is playing a significant role in driving the IoT industry forward, and with the proliferation of smart devices based on IoT, global connectivity has become imperative.
As we continue to explore the possibilities of satellite IoT technology, we can expect to see more innovative solutions in the market that will shape the future of our world.
According to BIS Research, the global satellite-based IoT service market was valued at $0.27 billion in 2022, which is expected to reach $0.37 billion by 2033, growing with a CAGR of 2.76% within the forecast period 2022-2033.
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