Hobbyists
We have a huge amount of respect for the developers, educators and enthusiasts who utilize 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.
Why Build With Ground Control?
Build Satellite Connectivity Into Your Project
Compact transceivers and development-friendly interfaces make it easier to add satellite messaging to custom electronics, sensors and autonomous systems.
Start Small and Scale
Buy individual devices for experimentation and proof-of-concept work, then move into larger deployments using the same satellite services and development approach.
Connect From Almost Anywhere
Iridium-powered devices provide pole-to-pole coverage for projects operating beyond cellular, Wi-Fi and other terrestrial networks.
Access Developer Tools and Support
Use documented APIs, C, Python and Arduino libraries, code examples and technical support to accelerate integration and testing.
Recommended Devices
Compact Sensor Messaging
RockBLOCK 9603 provides low power, two way Iridium SBD connectivity for embedded electronics, sensors and tracking projects. RockBLOCK Plus offers similar messaging capability in a rugged enclosed format for outdoor installations.
Larger Payloads and Edge Applications
RockBLOCK 9704 supports larger messages for projects that need richer telemetry, grouped sensor readings or compressed files. RockBLOCK Plus 9704 provides the same service in a weatherproof enclosure.
RockBLOCK Pro adds onboard processing, storage and configurable I/O for projects that need to collect, filter or act on data before transmission, with RockBLOCK Pro OEM available for custom integration.
IP Connectivity
RockREMOTE Mini provides compact Iridium Certus 100 IP connectivity for applications requiring more frequent communication, remote access or higher data volumes. RockREMOTE Mini OEM supports integration into custom instruments, gateways and autonomous platforms.
What Can You Build?
High-Altitude Balloons and Experimental Aircraft
Transmit position, altitude, temperature and other telemetry after a platform travels beyond cellular coverage.
Autonomous Boats and Vehicles
Maintain tracking, receive status updates and exchange commands with experimental vehicles operating over long distances.
Remote Sensors and Data Loggers
Connect environmental instruments, weather stations, buoys and other sensors deployed away from terrestrial networks.
Education and Research
Give students practical experience of embedded electronics, communications, data handling and satellite-enabled system design.
Tracking and Recovery
Monitor valuable prototypes, equipment and payloads, helping teams locate and recover them following a flight, voyage or field test.
Proof-of-Concept IoT Projects
Test whether satellite connectivity is suitable for a new product or application before committing to a larger commercial development.
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.