In the past, we've discussed some of the places where you need to have a satellite phone with you to help ensure your own safety, and we've dispelled some common myths about satellite phones which frequently steer people away from this lifesaving technology. We've also made it easy to rent or buy a satellite phone so you can have one with you when you need it. But which satellite phone should you get?

Here are some things to consider when choosing a satellite phone, to ensure you have the right one for the occasion. The four brands we are comparing are Inmarsat, Iridium, Thuraya, and Globalstar.

As part of its commitment to its reliable, fully-global satellite network, Iridium is launching its next generation of satellites comprising 66 active satellites as well as 9 orbital and 6 ground spares. Iridium has been launching these new satellites with SpaceX throughout 2017 and will continue in 2018 with launches of 10 satellites about every two months.

In addition to providing enhanced low earth orbit communications for Iridium satellite phones, some Iridium NEXT satellites include additional capabilities for air traffic control, airlines, and marine AIS (Aeronautical Information Service) ship tracking receivers.

Outfitter Satellite, as a premier supplier of satellite phones, accessories, and rentals, is keeping a close eye on the progress.

Satellite Phone Rentals for the Budget-Minded Traveler

It's an unpredictable world out there, and can be very dangerous even for the most seasoned adventurer. If your travels take you away from civilization and cellular service, a satellite phone could save your life. Outfitter Satellite offers satellite phone rentals at a daily rate, so you can have this vital method of communication when you need it. All our rentals include accessories like cases, charging systems, extra batteries, and everything else you need to keep going.

Iridium M2M – Global Connectivity for the Internet of Things

Safety Tips for Skiing and Snowboarding

Snow means a lot of different things to people around the world. Some never see it. Some hate it, viewing it as a nuisance that requires hours of backbreaking shoveling just to get their car out of the garage. Others love to watch the snowfall… as long as they're watching through a window while curled up near a fireplace indoors. But for some people, snow takes on a whole new meaning: skiing and snowboarding season!

If you're one of those individuals who can't wait to get out on the slopes and feel the wind rushing past you as you soar down the side of a mountain, you're probably already planning a trip. There are tons of fantastic ski resorts all over the world, and some definite favorite destinations for snowboarders. Maybe you already have a favorite resort that's like a second home to you, or maybe you're looking for somewhere new to go. Either way, it's sure to be a blast!

Iridium Next and backwards compatibility: what does that even mean? Iridium is in the process of launching their new satellite constellation, Iridium Next, and the service on Next will be Iridium Certus.  Multiple new data speed service levels and new hardware terminals are slated to hit the market over the course of the next two years, but what about everyone who already has invested in Iridium equipment, you may ask?  Enter the technical term "Backwards Compatibility" or in layman's terms, the ability of older equipment to work on new satellites.  Read more in this article.

Satellite Phones for Sled Dog Racing

For generations, sled dogs have been known as one of the few reliable ways to traverse large distances over frozen landscapes. In frozen areas like Alaska, Canada, and Greenland, some places today are still only accessible by sled. Sled dog teams have contributed to mail delivery, supply runs, and exploration and were a major part of the gold rush in the late 1800s to early 1900s. Roald Amundsen relied on teams of sled dogs during his groundbreaking expedition to the North Pole. Undoubtedly, these hardy, fearless, and intelligent dogs are a part of history.

Who Needs a Fixed Site Satellite Phone?

When you think of satellite phones, an image may come to mind of a backpacker or mountaineer calling home on a handset from the middle of nowhere. Or maybe you think of a first responder in safety gear, checking in from a disaster relief area. Both ideas are accurate, but they aren't the whole picture — not all satellite phones are stuffed into a pocket to carry into rough terrain (although many are). Others are fixed site.

A fixed site satellite phone is part of a permanent installation within a structure, meant to bring satellite service to that location. The issue of the handsets needing a line of sight to an orbiting satellite is solved through the use of external antennas, allowing indoor use. So, who can benefit from such a setup?