Hobbyists

Getting started with satellite connectivity

We have a huge amount of respect for the developers, educators and enthusiasts who utilise our services for creative and often unique applications. We’re proud that we’ve helped hundreds of academic research projects and hobbyists take their first steps connecting devices via satellite.

From schools using smart buoys to help contain oil spills, to launching high altitude balloons into space; sending autonomous boats across the oceans to piloting drones beyond visual line of sight – Ground Control’s reliable, robust, well-priced solutions make pole-to-pole connectivity possible.

Space-bound-instruments

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    Introducing the RockBLOCK range

    Probably the best entry level product Ground Control has to offer hobbyists and educators is the RockBLOCK range of products: the RockBLOCK 9602 MK2, the RockBLOCK 9603, designed for smaller enclosures, and the fully waterproof and robust RockBLOCK Plus.

    The RockBLOCK products are compatible with Arduino, Windows, Mac and Linux computers, including Raspberry PI, and many other platforms with serial or USB ports. They connect users to the Iridium Low Earth Orbit satellite constellation, allowing coverage anywhere on Earth.

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      Why work with Ground Control for your satellite connectivity needs?

      Fully featured APIs

      Utilising satellite-enabled devices, journalists are able to work effectively and safely, at all times no matter where the story takes them.

      Live tracking data

      Cloudloop, our online platform, provides the facilities needed for you to efficiently manage your fleet, monitor alerts from devices, setup geo-fences to provide early warning if a device has gone inside/outside a certain area etc.

      Competitive pricing

      If you're testing a concept and / or only need a small number of devices and airtime, we've got you covered. We have a line rental and credits-based option which means your costs are completely transparent and can't exceed your limits.

      Global support

      From the home of the RockBLOCK in Southampton, UK, to our US headquarters in Atascadero, CA, wherever you are in the world, you'll be able to speak to one of our expert team to get the support you need for your project.

      Global community

      You'll find plenty of people developing and sharing code around the RockBLOCK series of products, in addition to our own extensive developer docs. That means it's very easy to get your project satellite-enabled.

      Highly secure

      IoT data security is an increasingly hot topic, so it's good to know that Ground Control offers several options ranging from firewalls to VPNs to completely private networks to ensure your data is only passed to authorised end points.

      Pole to pole coverage

      The Iridium satellite network, which the RockBLOCK products utilise, gives you truly global coverage. As long as you have a clear view of the sky, you will be able to send and receive data, irrespective of weather conditions.

      Get inspired by these creative projects

      If you need any help...

      ...That's what we're here for. If you'd like any advice on the best product, airtime, or config for your project, please call or email us, or complete the form, and we'll happy to help.

      If you prefer, you can purchase the Rock series of products directly via our website, and then register the device / purchase your airtime when you're ready; it's completely possible to self-serve.
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