As the Internet of Things (IoT) continues its exponential growth, the fusion of interconnected devices with satellite technology emerges as a crucial frontier. IoT, a developing market projected to revolutionize industries and daily life, comprises a diverse array of solutions. At its core, an IoT system typically integrates sensors, which gather data, a network infrastructure for transmission, and a platform for data analysis and application. However, the choice of connectivity plays a pivotal role in the effectiveness and scalability of these solutions. While terrestrial options like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular networks have dominated the landscape, satellite connectivity is increasingly recognized as a vital component, especially in remote or inaccessible regions where traditional networks are missing. This article delves into the significance of satellite connectivity within the realm of IoT, exploring its advantages, challenges and applications.

IoT Connectivity Types

Different types of IoT systems have different requirements for data rate, latency, reliability and the like. These characteristics largely affect choice of connectivity required in the device. For instance, in urban environments bustling with interconnected devices, Wi-Fi networks reign supreme, offering high data rates over shorter distances. On the flip side, for sprawling agricultural fields, LoRaWAN emerges as a frontrunner, facilitating long-range communication with low power consumption. Meanwhile, within industrial setups demanding real-time monitoring and control, Zigbee meshes seamlessly, optimizing data transmission amidst machinery and obstacles.

Each connectivity choice reflects a strategic alignment with the unique demands of its operational environment, showcasing the versatility and adaptability of IoT infrastructure. Image below provides rough idea of the range vs. data rate position of various know communication standards.

 

Additionally confusing may be the need to differentiate between IoT protocols and IoT wireless communication technologies. Shorter explanation would be that wireless communication technologies define how devices establish wireless connections and physically transmit data, while communication protocols define the rules and formats for data exchange over these wireless connections. Both technologies and protocols play crucial roles in enabling effective IoT and networking solutions, with each serving a distinct purpose in the communication stack.

Satellite Connectivity for IoT

So the question becomes, why use satellite connectivity for your IoT system? Primary objective for choosing satellite over other, terrestrial types of communication is the fact that satellite connectivity can reach devices in remote, rural, difficult to approach areas where there is lack of base stations and other equipment capable of providing connectivity.

Satellite connectivity offers global coverage, resilience against infrastructure failures, scalability for large-scale deployments, low-latency options with newer satellite constellations, mobility support, enhanced security, regulatory compliance, effectiveness in emergency situations, and cost-effectiveness in remote or sparsely populated areas. To make it more clear, we will list a few different use cases that benefit from these advantages:

1. Environmental Monitoring in Remote Areas: IoT sensors deployed in remote forests, deserts, or polar regions can monitor environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, air quality, and wildlife activity. Satellite connectivity ensures continuous data transmission from these remote locations, enabling researchers and conservationists to monitor ecosystems and wildlife habitats without the need for terrestrial infrastructure.

2. Maritime Asset Tracking: Satellite-connected IoT devices installed on ships, cargo vessels, and fishing boats can track the location, status, and condition of maritime assets in real-time. This enables fleet managers to optimize routes, monitor cargo conditions, prevent theft, and ensure compliance with maritime regulations, even in the open ocean where cellular coverage may be limited.

3. Precision Agriculture: IoT sensors deployed in agricultural fields can collect data on soil moisture, temperature, nutrient levels, and crop health. Satellite connectivity enables farmers to monitor their crops remotely, make data-driven decisions, and optimize irrigation, fertilization, and pest control strategies across vast agricultural landscapes where traditional connectivity options may not be available.

4. Disaster Response and Emergency Management: During natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, or wildfires, satellite-connected IoT devices play a crucial role in disaster response and emergency management. These devices can monitor environmental conditions, track the movement of emergency vehicles, coordinate rescue operations, and provide communications infrastructure in areas where terrestrial networks are damaged or overloaded.

5. Remote Infrastructure Monitoring: IoT sensors installed on critical infrastructure such as oil and gas pipelines, electrical grids, and remote industrial facilities can monitor equipment performance, detect leaks or faults, and prevent costly downtime. Satellite connectivity ensures continuous monitoring and real-time alerts in remote locations where terrestrial connectivity may be unreliable or non-existent.

6. Wildlife Tracking and Conservation: Satellite-connected IoT devices equipped with GPS and biometric sensors can track the movement and behavior of endangered species, migratory birds, and marine mammals. This data helps conservationists monitor wildlife populations, identify habitat preferences, and implement effective conservation strategies across vast and remote ecosystems.

7. Global Supply Chain Management: IoT devices integrated into shipping containers, freight trains, and cargo planes can provide real-time visibility into the location, condition, and security of goods as they move through the global supply chain. Satellite connectivity ensures end-to-end tracking and monitoring, enabling logistics companies to optimize inventory management, reduce theft and losses, and improve supply chain efficiency across international borders and remote regions.

8. Remote Healthcare and Telemedicine: Satellite-connected IoT devices enable remote healthcare and telemedicine services in underserved or isolated communities where access to medical facilities is limited. These devices can monitor patient vital signs, facilitate teleconsultations with healthcare providers, and deliver medical assistance during emergencies, bridging the healthcare gap in remote areas without reliable terrestrial connectivity.

9. Asset Tracking in Transportation: IoT devices installed on trucks, trains, and containers can track the location, status, and condition of assets as they move through the transportation network. Satellite connectivity ensures continuous monitoring and real-time visibility, enabling logistics companies to optimize route planning, improve security, and streamline operations across vast geographic regions where cellular coverage may be spotty or non-existent.

10. Energy Management in Remote Installations: IoT sensors deployed in remote energy installations such as solar farms, wind turbines, and off-grid power systems can monitor energy production, consumption, and equipment performance. Satellite connectivity enables remote monitoring and control of energy infrastructure in off-grid locations, allowing operators to optimize energy production, detect faults, and minimize downtime without relying on terrestrial networks.

Current Satellite IoT Market Predictions

Current Satellite IoT Landscape

Several companies specialize in providing satellite-based IoT solutions. These can range from connectivity chips (modems) and development kits that you can integrate in your own solution or full turn-key products. Some prominent players in this space include:

1. Globalstar: Offers satellite IoT solutions through its satellite constellation, providing services like asset tracking, remote monitoring, and emergency communications.

2. Iridium: Known for its global satellite constellation, Iridium offers IoT solutions for various industries, including maritime, aviation, land transportation, and government applications.

3. Inmarsat: Provides satellite communication services for IoT applications such as remote monitoring, asset tracking, and safety services across industries like maritime, aviation, and enterprise.

4. Orbcomm: Offers satellite IoT solutions for asset tracking, fleet management, remote monitoring, and telematics applications in industries such as transportation, utilities, and agriculture.

5. Thuraya: Specializes in satellite communication solutions for IoT applications in industries like energy, government, maritime, and humanitarian aid, providing connectivity in remote and challenging environments.

6. AST SpaceMobile: Developing a satellite constellation to provide mobile connectivity directly to smartphones and IoT devices, especially in areas without existing network infrastructure.

7. Skylo: Offers satellite-based IoT solutions for industries such as agriculture, transportation, and utilities, enabling connectivity and data transmission in remote and rural areas

 

 

Satellite IoT Market Overview

 

Satellite IoT Design