Terrestar Solutions officially launched an unprecedented service aimed at integrating communication networks in difficult-to-access territories. The new solution focuses on the development of a hybrid Internet of Coisas (IoT) architecture, designed to transform telecommunications infrastructure in the northern regions of Canadian territory. The project aims to eliminate shadow zones that have historically hindered the efficiency and safety of critical industrial operations, offering a robust alternative where conventional ground infrastructure cannot reach.
Large sectors of the economy, such as mining and forestry, face significant logistical challenges due to geographic isolation. Lack of continuous connectivity prevents full automation and real-time monitoring of valuable assets. With the new initiative, the company aims to fill these gaps, ensuring that data and voice communications can travel without interruption, regardless of the location of teams or heavy machinery.
The implementation of this technology represents a milestone for digital sovereignty and the modernization of field operations. By enabling direct communication between devices and satellites, the need for exorbitant investments in physical transmission towers in environmental preservation areas or rough terrain is eliminated. The solution promises not only to optimize production processes, but also to raise work safety standards in hostile environments.
Innovation with open standards and non-terrestrial networks
The technological core of the new platform is based on the concept of Redes Não Terrestres (NTN), operating in compliance with 3GPP open standards. Essa strategic choice allows for fluid integration between existing terrestrial telecommunications systems and space infrastructure. Interoperability is key to the system, allowing mobile devices and industrial sensors to automatically switch between cell tower signal and satellite connection, without the user noticing any latency or drop in service.
To make this complex architecture viable, collaboration with Mavenir was fundamental. The partnership allowed the union of radio access networks (RAN) with cloud processing cores, creating a resilient ecosystem. Diferente of closed proprietary solutions, the use of open standards facilitates the adoption of technology by different equipment manufacturers and network operators, democratizing access to cutting-edge services.
The system uses the Echostar T1 satellite, operating in the 40 MHz S band. The architecture was designed to support both critical data traffic and voice calls, essential for coordinating teams in the field.
Field tests and operational validation
The effectiveness of the solution was put to the test in a rigorous testing program carried out in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region. In partnership with the company LUBEX, the technology was subjected to real operating conditions for thirty-two weeks. The long evaluation period served to monitor the system’s behavior under continuous stress, controlling industrial equipment in areas where conventional signal is non-existent.
During testing, the technology demonstrated the ability to maintain stable data transmission, allowing accurate tracking of transport vehicles and heavy machinery in shadow areas. Practical validation confirmed that the switching between terrestrial networks and the satellite occurs imperceptibly for the monitoring systems, guaranteeing the integrity of the information collected in real time.
The results obtained point to immediate benefits in fleet management and predictive maintenance. With guaranteed connectivity, managers can anticipate mechanical failures and optimize transport routes, reducing operational costs and the environmental impact of extractive activities. Technology has proven to be a vital tool for modernizing heavy industry in isolated regions.
Impact on security and disaster prevention
In addition to productivity gains, the new hybrid network plays a crucial role in occupational and environmental safety. The ability to connect sensors across vast forest areas allows the implementation of early fire detection systems. Constant monitoring of thermal variations and air quality enables a quick response to fire outbreaks, protecting both the ecosystem and local communities.
For isolated workers, technology acts as a lifeline. Ensuring stable communication in the event of medical emergencies or workplace accidents transforms the safety protocol of these industries. The possibility of requesting immediate help, even hundreds of kilometers from the nearest urban center, is a significant advance in protecting the workforce.
The expectation is that, after successful validation, the technology will be scaled to cover other regions that suffer from infrastructure deficits. The business model envisages not only meeting corporate demands, but also integrating rural and indigenous communities into the global network, promoting digital inclusion and opening new opportunities for local economic development.
