Satellite modem and smartphone with Sarontar app

The smartphone displaying a map is installed with the Sarontar app and the handheld satellite modem is used when terrestrial networks are unavailable. The switching between terrestrial and satellite is fully automatic.

ESA’s Integrated Applications Promotions programme helped TeleConsult Austria to develop and validate the Sarontar system, short for Situational Awareness and Command & Control of Rescue Forces in Alpine Regions.

The system uses satellite communications to provide mountain rescue teams with the information such as maps, messages and warnings as they make their way up the mountain and operate in the crisis area.