Satellite messaging solutions, such as ZOLEO, work with the user’s smartphone to enable seamless messaging coverage in remote areas by connecting to satellite networks. These devices transmit messages to satellites, which relay the signals to ground stations that route them to their final destinations, such as email servers or mobile phones via SMS. Satellite communicators typically include GPS for location tracking, emergency SOS alerting, and Bluetooth capabilities so users can pair the device with their smartphone.

Satellite communicators are more affordable, and easier to use than satellite phones. Messaging devices like ZOLEO only require a brief connection with the satellites in the sky to transmit messages, whereas making a voice call using a satellite phone requires a constant satellite connection for the entire call.

Satellite messaging is ideal for those who require dependable off-grid messaging connectivity at an affordable price, but do not need voice calling. Satellite communicators are popular amongst global travelers, outdoor enthusiasts who hike, camp, overland and sail, as well as businesses, government and NGOs with employees that travel or work in remote areas. The built-in tracking and check-in features also make satellite messengers a great solution for monitoring the journey of users on foot, in vehicles, or in small aircraft.

Satellite communicators typically feature a long battery life. A device like ZOLEO offers 200 hours of battery life on a single charge. However, any wireless device needs to be charged periodically, so for extended travel it is a good idea to carry a portable power source.

Satellite communicators are not designed for indoor use. Like all satellite devices, they require a clear, unimpeded line of sight to the satellites in the sky to transmit messages. However, with the right accessories like mounts, satellite communicators can be used in vehicles or in aircrafts.

Similar to traditional cellular phone plans, satellite messaging is usually offered through monthly service plans. Satellite messaging devices like ZOLEO offer a range of affordable monthly subscriptions, with bundled messages and the option to suspend service when not in use.

Satellite phones can make and receive calls to/from cellular phones and landline phones around the world. There are different dialing options available to increase ease of use and reduce costs.

When you make a call using a satellite phone, it transmits directly up to a satellite in space then back down to a ground station on Earth. From there, it connects to landlines or cellular networks to complete the call. When you receive a call on a satellite phone, the call is routed through ground stations and then to the appropriate satellite. That satellite relays the signal to the satellite phone device.

To send or receive calls to a satellite phone, the device needs to be on, with the antenna deployed, and the device needs to have a clear view of the sky so it can transmit to satellites.

Satellite phones provide essential voice connectivity, and some include additional features like GPS location awareness and SOS alerting.

Satellite phones are popular amongst individuals and businesses that require voice connectivity while traveling or working off the grid. Voice calling is also a preferred method of communication for many emergency response organizations.

While satellite phones are designed to work best outdoors, with a clear line of sight to the sky, they can be used indoors with the right accessories. BlueCosmo offers a variety of docking stations, external antennas and cables that enable satellite phones to be used inside a building, vessel or vehicle.

When placing a voice call the antenna of your satellite phone must be fully extended and have an unobstructed view of the sky. This way, a passing satellite will be able to connect to your satellite phone.

The ability to connect via satellite helps to eliminate the dependency on congested cellular networks. Satellite enables a global connection when users are in the areas beyond terrestrial cellular networks, or if infrastructure is impacted by natural disasters (hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes etc.).

Three of the most popular satellite phones are the Iridium 9555, Inmarsat IsatPhone 2 and Iridium Extreme. These devices are self-contained, meaning they do not require additional software, like an app, to work. Users simply pick up the device and turn it on to make voice calls.

Iridium GO! and Iridium GO! exec^® are app-dependent voice systems that allow additional features like Bluetooth connectivity. These devices allow you to use your own smartphone for a better calling experience. They also and support multiple simultaneous voice and data connections with a usage range of up to 30 m (100 ft) range from the device.

Satellite phones offer an extended battery life, though it varies by model as outlined in the chart below.

On extended trips, the battery on the satellite phone may get depleted, so it is always advisable to carry a portable power source or backup battery when going off-grid.

Satellite voice calls are charged by the minute. Satellite phone postpaid plans are monthly subscriptions that are best for those who want ongoing network access, without worrying about running out of airtime minutes. Prepaid airtime SIM cards are a good option for those on a fixed budget because airtime minutes are purchased advance. BlueCosmo, offers both post-paid and pre-paid plans for satellite phones that operate on the Iridium and Inmarsat satellite networks.

Satellite data works by transmitting to the satellites in space then back down to a ground station on Earth. From there, a connection is made with the internet to complete the request. Portable satellite Wi-Fi hotspot solutions can range from 88 Kbps to 1Mbps. The bandwidth of the connection depends on the product. The portable satellite data solutions offered by BlueCosmo like Iridium GO! and Iridium GO! exec^® are lightweight and fit inside a backpack, making travel with these devices easy.

Portable satellite Wi-Fi hotspots such as the Iridium GO! exec^® are good options for users who want to stay connected while traveling or working off the grid. This type of satellite data is dependable, and popular amongst recreational travelers who want to keep in touch with those back home, sailors who require access to GRIB weather reports, and corporate and government organizations with remote worker or teams that need to stay in touch via email and messaging, or transmit small media files.

Land-use BGAN (Broadband Global Area Network) terminals are a great option for a remote office. The connection is fast but can be expensive. These devices provide high-speed (broadband) satellite-based internet connectivity in remote environments. Suitable for web browsing, email, and video conferencing, these portable, satellite data terminals are built to ensure reliable communication almost anywhere, making them ideal for emergency response, field research, media broadcasting, military operations, and businesses.

Yes, portable satellite data solutions can be used indoors. With the use of external antennas and cables, these solutions have a powerful enough connection to satellite networks to be used inside.

Satellite data devices and Wi-Fi hotspots, offer an extended battery life, though it varies by model as outlined in the chart below. As with all wireless devices, they need to be charged periodically, so it’s important to have access to a portable power source or spare battery.

On extended trips, the battery on the satellite phone may get depleted, so it is always advisable to carry a portable power source or backup battery when going off-grid.

Satellite data gives you access to data services on-the-go, but it is different than traditional terrestrial internet services. Before heading off-grid, it’s important to know the limitations of satellite data so you can make the most of your internet access remotely.

Satellite data has higher latency than traditional internet, which can make it difficult to connect to video calls. Sending compressed media files is slower and more expensive via satellite data, and the user needs to remain stationary while transmitting data. As with other satellite devices, the antenna on your device needs a clear line of sight to the satellites in the sky, so tree canopies and other physical obstructions may negatively impact connectivity.

BlueCosmo offers a range of satellite Wi-Fi hotspot products including the Iridium GO! and Iridium GO! exec^® as well as BGAN terminals which serve as excellent, high-speed mobile satellite data solutions

Satellite data service plans costs and options depend on the product. BlueCosmo offers monthly service plans for voice, messaging and data for Iridium GO! and Iridium GO! exec^®.

Some satellite data offerings, like Iridium GO! and BGAN terminals, can be leveraged with prepaid plans, where users pay for services in advance. These plans offer flexibility and control over usage without being tied to an ongoing contract.

Postpaid plans offer users the flexibility to pay for services monthly and cater to various needs including global internet access, remote communications, and IoT connectivity and pricing can vary widely depending on factors such as data usage, the number of devices, and specific service requirements.