Extending network reach with akenza and satellite IoT

IoT adoption continues to accelerate. However, coverage limitations remain a major obstacle. Traditional cellular and LPWAN networks cannot reach many remote or harsh environments where network infrastructure is limited or absent. 

Satellite IoT addresses this gap by enabling reliable data transmission from anywhere on the planet. As part of emerging Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs), advances in satellite technology are making global IoT connectivity increasingly accessible. As businesses and infrastructure increasingly rely on insights from remote assets, such as pipelines and dams, satellite IoT offers a solution to extend connectivity where it’s needed most. 

The satellite IoT landscape 

LoRa and cellular connectivity are two main types of connectivity technologies used in the satellite IoT field. Both LoRaWAN and cellular technologies can be used as communication protocols between IoT devices and these satellites. They serve different purposes but can coexist and complement each other depending on the application. 

LoRa-based satellite IoT

LoRaWAN satellite IoT is built for low-power, long-range communication. Rather than continuously transmitting data, LoRa devices wait for satellites to come into range before sending messages. 

In the case of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, like those used by Lacuna Space, satellites move across the sky in predictable orbits. Devices are programmed to know the schedule of satellite passes over their location, so they only activate when a satellite is overhead. During these windows, the device sends a message to the satellite, which the satellite relays to the ground station. 

EchoStar Mobile uses Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) satellites, which remain fixed over a specific point on Earth’s equator. Because these satellites provide constant coverage, devices can send data at any point during the available uplink window, adhering to LoRa’s time-on-air limitations. 

Cellular-based satellite IoT

Cellular-based satellite IoT uses standardized cellular technologies such as NB-IoT and LTE-M. Some systems allow cellular IoT devices to connect directly to satellites. 

Providers like Monogoto and Skylo use GEO satellites to deliver hybrid connectivity, enabling devices to switch between terrestrial and non-terrestrial connectivity, ensuring uninterrupted service. This hybrid model combines the strengths of both networks, using terrestrial connectivity where available and satellite in areas beyond cellular reach. 

Devices must register with the satellite network before transmitting. This process typically uses SIM-based identity and standard cellular protocols.

A temperature sensor is connected to akenza with Monogoto connectivity and the Skylo satellite provider. The message log shows the data exchange between the device and akenza.

Reaching global connectivity through satellite IoT with akenza

We've tested and integrated both LoRa-based and cellular-based satellite connectivity into the akenza platform. This integration enables reliable IoT deployment even in the world’s most remote and challenging environments. It gives businesses the flexibility to connect assets anywhere on Earth, whether monitoring a remote pipeline, managing mountain infrastructure, or tracking equipment across remote landscapes.

Our work goes beyond proof-of-concept. In the Swiss Alps, for example, we’re supporting a live deployment where the rugged terrain makes satellite connectivity not just beneficial, but essential. This allows us to monitor rivers and dams of Switzerland’s most remote mountain valleys.

When you build your IoT project with akenza, you get a scalable tech stack, especially when it comes to satellite connectivity. The platform lets you manage your entire device fleet and connectivity setup in one place. It supports a mix of technologies, allowing you to combine terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks like LoRaWAN, cellular, mioty, or even traditional HTTP-based protocols. And since satellite data transmission is limited and costly, akenza helps you manage your device payloads efficiently, making every byte count.

These efforts reflect our commitment to building a resilient, accessible, and global IoT ecosystem that is limitless in reach.