The use of IoT solutions is steadily growing and already exceeds 16.7 billion connected devices in 2023, according to IoT Analytics. This expansion raises a key question for any company: what technology should be used when we need to connect and collect data remotely? We explain all the key points below:
What is IoT technology and what does it consist of?
IoT (Internet of Things) describes a network of objects that connect to the Internet and exchange data without constant user intervention. Computing achieved this integration when chips became small or accessible, and after this evolution, it became possible for objects as different as a switch or a vehicle to incorporate sensors capable of capturing useful information.
An IoT system works when a device captures data, sends it to the cloud or another device, and executes a specific response. This sequence creates information flows that allow tasks to be automated and problems anticipated. The reduction in cost and size of electronics drove an ecosystem that transformed homes, businesses and cities. However, the model has scaled to the point of being able to monitor entire cities. For example:
- Connected cars optimize routes and improve road safety.
- Smart homes manage consumption, comfort and surveillance.
- Municipalities use IoT to measure air quality, adjust lighting, detect faults in urban services and better organize traffic and parking.
In fact, IMD’s 2024 Smart City Index report indicates that lighting automation and environmental control already improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions in European capitals.
What is satellite IoT used for?
Satellite IoT extends coverage and is capable of connecting assets located outside terrestrial networks. Thanks to it, companies improve their logistics, production and maintenance because they receive precise data from remote areas. This visibility creates more efficient operations and supports a sustainable energy transition.
For example, the case of FOSSA Systems shows how a network of low‑orbit satellites and IoT devices manage the complete data cycle. It works as follows:
- Data collection: Sensors capture specific information depending on the use case.
- Data transmission: The FOSSA Nexus IoT device and gateway sends the information to FOSSA’s constellation or switches to terrestrial networks if coverage is available.
- Data download: The satellite stores the data and delivers it when it connects with ground stations.
- Smart decision‑making: Analysis turns data into knowledge that guides precise actions.
Advantages of satellite IoT
As we have seen, satellite IoT has multiple advantages since it expands connectivity and enables companies and communities to access key data even in areas without terrestrial networks. Following the previous example, this capability drives efficiency and innovation:
- Global coverage: Satellite connectivity bridges the gap of the 80% of the planet without cellular networks and allows FOSSA’s constellation to manage assets from any location.
- Energy savings: LPWAN technologies reduce consumption and operate with LoRa, a long‑range option recognized across the industry.
- Ease of use and integration: The satellite network remains compatible with existing terrestrial deployments.
Terrestrial IoT
Terrestrial IoT connects objects to mobile networks, Wi‑Fi or LPWAN available in the environment. This way, systems allow a device to send data and receive commands as long as it has coverage. In addition, companies use this connectivity to control equipment and automate tasks easily.
Sectors where Space IoT can be applied
Space IoT is very useful when there is stable coverage and monitoring of assets or processes is required.
- Energy and utilities: IoT networks enable monitoring of water quality, desalination processes, and parameters of power lines or photovoltaic microgrids.
- Infrastructure and construction: Connectivity facilitates local equipment control and monitoring of operating conditions at worksites and treatment plants.
- Smart livestock farming: IoT networks work well for monitoring livestock, analyzing vineyards and orchards, or controlling irrigation systems.
- Oil and gas: Monitoring corrosion in pipelines or extraction activities works better when devices connect to networks close to the facilities.
- Logistics: Maritime and land transport use IoT when operating within areas with available coverage.
- National security: Security forces use space IoT when they need fast and stable communications on the ground to coordinate tactical operations or manage emergency situations.