OXFORD, England, Dec. 2, 2024 – Lacuna Space is playing a crucial role in a ground-breaking project to help monitor water quality in remote areas of Wales. In partnership with a customer under the Rural Connectivity Accelerator and funded by the UK Department of Science, Innovation, and Technology (DSIT). By leveraging Low Earth Orbit satellite IoT technology, provided here by UK-based Lacuna Space, the project is overcoming connectivity challenges to collect vital data from challenging areas. Lacuna’s novel system has been developed over the past four years with funding from ESA and the UKSA and is specifically designed to address these sorts of challenges
One of the primary challenges in environmental monitoring, particularly in water quality assessment is the availability of connectivity. Water quality monitors are readily available, however they rely upon cellular connectivity to transmit data back.. This system works well in urban areas, but for tributary river networks, which are typically in Valley’s surrounded by heavy vegetation, cellular infrastructure can be sparse or non-existent.
In many regions, the roll-out of water quality monitors is limited by the availability of connectivity. This issue is particularly prominent in rural areas, where the majority of monitors, located in hard to reach places, remain unconnected. Lacuna’s satellite IoT service is an economic solution for reading and reporting these monitors providing an affordable and scalable solution that enables the transmission of water quality data from the most isolated locations. With this service, data now flows regularly back to the platform, creating new visibility. What were once gaps in data are now filled, offering a clearer picture of water quality.
The ability to track water quality metrics such as nitrates, phosphates, ammonia and pollutant levels is essential for managing healthy ecosystems and preserving biodiversity. Elevated levels of nutrients and phosphates in water can lead to harmful algal blooms and disruptions in aquatic life. By collecting and reporting data from remote water meters, organisations can take action to address pollution, manage water resource effectively, and ensure the protection of local ecosystems.
The Wales based project is a prime example of how satellite IoT technology is helping to address pressing environmental challenges. The integration of satellite IoT networks into such systems holds immense potential, not only in water quality management, but in a wide range of applications that require reliable, remote data collection.
Discover how Lacuna Space can help your business in remote regions – connect with us on LinkedIn or reach out today: https://lacuna-space.com/contact/