Cell coverage isn’t always reliable. When you don’t have any bars, and you’re in a remote area, out at sea, or hiking canyons, your cell phone won’t help you. But a satellite communications device or satellite phone will. Satellite devices and satellite-enabled smartphones may work worldwide, regardless of cellular networks. These devices rely on a system, or constellation, of communication satellites in various types of earth orbit.

A satellite communications device can be lifesaving during emergencies, especially when conventional communication methods fail. These devices offer reliable SOS alerts, two-way communication, and peace of mind.

Global Rescue responds to hundreds of SOS calls monthly, coordinating rescues worldwide for individuals using satellite devices. These range from someone rescued from a life raft off Georgia’s coast to evacuating a snake bite victim in Australia. Other rescues include a hiker in Sweden with a dislocated shoulder and a 65-year-old trekker in Canada with an ankle injury.

We coordinated with ZOLEO, a satellite communications device company, to receive SOS messages from their devices. After receiving the SOS messages in our operations centre, Global Rescue coordinated with emergency services to rescue a helicopter pilot who crashed onto a frozen lake north of Goose Bay, Newfoundland, and Labrador, Canada. The helicopter pilot was rescued to safety with minor injuries.

Quick response is essential. Timely rescues prevent more severe complications during emergencies.

Satellite communication capabilities are evolving rapidly. Apple’s iOS 18 update now expands satellite messaging beyond emergencies, offering users satellite messages when cellular and Wi-Fi connections are unavailable. Google’s Pixel 9 series can connect to a satellite to notify emergency services when no cellular and Wi-Fi coverage is available.

Other companies are also racing to expand satellite-to-cell capabilities. SpaceX is partnering with T-Mobile to test direct-to-cell satellite services through Starlink. Verizon and AT&T have agreed with AST SpaceMobile, which is developing direct-to-cell satellite services that provide even more excellent coverage in remote areas.

The race among wireless service companies and smartphone manufacturers to provide satellite communications capabilities for users provides business, leisure, and adventure travellers with a giant safety net to travel more boldly in the future.

Travelers welcome the advances. According to the Global Rescue survey, 82% of respondents would feel safer with smartphones equipped with emergency satellite communication capabilities. Nearly half (49%) said the ability to call for help in areas without cell service is their top reason for using these devices. Over a third (37%) said it also reassures their family and friends, reducing their anxiety during travel.

However, knowing the limitations—such as satellite visibility, topographical challenges, and environmental conditions—is crucial to maximizing their effectiveness. The satellite antenna in iPhones or other mobile phones with satellite capability currently has less power and availability than in a satellite communication device, like Zoleo or inReach devices, which have more reliable connectivity than a satellite-enabled mobile phone.

Satellite communication device users attempting to send an SOS must familiarize themselves with their device’s specific procedures, ensuring they understand who receives their distress call. Satellite messaging devices send alerts to a monitoring provider, which dispatches rescue operations or emergency services based on the severity of the situation.

Users should be aware of topography limitations that can affect satellite connections. A clear view of the sky is necessary. It may be challenging to connect with satellites in thick forests or where there are steep slopes above you. The same is true in urban areas with tall buildings. You may be able to send a signal indoors if standing next to a window.

Satellite communications devices offer peace of mind and life-saving two-way communication capabilities during emergencies, especially in areas without cellular service. For travellers, adventurers, and professionals in remote locations, these devices allow SOS alerts to be sent to first responders, initiating medical operations or emergency rescue, including helicopter rescues, when necessary.

Written by: Harding Bush

BIO:

Harding Bush is a former Navy SEAL and associate director for security operations at Global Rescue, the world’s leading provider of medical, security, evacuation, and travel risk management services.

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