A Resilient Alternative to GPS
Satellite Time and Location (STL) via the Iridium network provides a highly secure, encrypted, and spoof-resistant alternative to traditional GNSS/GPS for acquiring precise positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) data anywhere on Earth.
The one-way STL signal delivered from Iridium’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation is up to 1,000 times stronger than GPS, allowing it to penetrate buildings, and maintain accuracy in environments where GNSS/GPS signals are blocked or degraded.
Iridium’s LEO satellites orbit approximately 25 times closer to Earth than GNSS, ensuring STL delivers a faster, more reliable signal, in even the most remote locations.
RockBLOCK Pro for Maritime GPS Integrity
Maritime navigation faces escalating threats from GPS spoofing and jamming, which can mislead vessels into perilous situations. RockBLOCK Pro STL addresses this challenge by delivering both GNSS and Iridium STL-derived positions, enabling operators to compare data streams and detect anomalies indicative of interference.
Its compact, IP66-rated aluminum enclosure ensures durability in harsh marine environments, while low power consumption (<200mW idle) makes it ideal for remote deployments. By integrating this robust form factor with STL’s authenticated signals, RockBLOCK Pro STL enhances navigational integrity, ensuring vessels stay on course even amid GPS disruptions.
In addition to location data, RockBLOCK STL can send and receive message payloads of up to 100 KB, making it a valuable failover communications resource.
IMPORTANT: This is intended to provide early access information to interested parties during the development process. While we strive to maintain accuracy, any part of the specification or design of these products may change without notice.
- Uses Iridium Satellite Time and Location (STL) for GPS-independent positioning, resistant to GPS jamming and spoofing
- Provides global satellite messaging, enabling two way communication anywhere on Earth via the Iridium network
- Offers configurable real time tracking with position updates ranging from 10 minutes to 24 hours
- Allows for geofencing with customizable alerts when entering or exiting predefined areas
- Records historical movement logs for mission analysis and after-action reports
- Built with a rugged, military grade design, offering an IP66 waterproof rating
- Designed for low power consumption
- Multiple interfaces for easy integration
- Available with a built-in antenna, or with provision for an external antenna
- Manages message queuing, retries and any network issues, reducing development complexity
Physical
- Size: 121 x 75 x 53 mm (188 x 91 x 57 mm inc. antenna / connectors / foot)
- Weight: 400 g (including antenna) / 388 g (SMA version)
- Case: Aluminum enclosure
Environmental
- Ingress Rating: IP66
- Operating Temperature: -40C to +70C, <95% RH
Cable Connections
- Power: 2m 12-core cable or USB-C
- Antenna: Either a built-in antenna, or provision for an external antenna via SMA connector. Cable options from 0.2m to 4m
Location Services
- Iridium Satellite Time and Location (STL)
- GNSS: Concurrent reception of 4 GNSS – BeiDou, Galileo, GLONASS, GPS / QZSS
Electrical & Power
- Voltage: 5-30V DC, 5V USB-C
- Power Consumption (Maximum): 2.5W
- Power Consumption (Minimum): <75mW (sleep mode)
- Power Consumption (Idle): <200mW (registered with network, listening, ready to transmit/receive)
Communication Interfaces
- Iridium Messaging Transport: 4.8kbps bi-directional messages from 10 to 100,000 bytes. Latency typically < 10s between remote and cloud applications
- Bluetooth: BLE 5.0. App for configuration/status. Future sensor connectivity planned
- Serial: RS485 or RS232. Proprietary serial API & support for legacy 9603 AT commands
- USB-C: Serial port. MSD file system
- Digital GPIO: All 4 channels independently configurable as either 0-10V analog input, open drain digital output or digital input suitable for dry contacts. Connection via 12 way cable assembly
Request more information or schedule a demo
Interested in learning how the RockBlock Pro STL can support your operations in GPS-denied environments?
Get in touch with our team to schedule a demo or request further information. Complete the form or email hello@groundcontrol.com, and we will respond within one working day.