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At A Glance:

  1. The Challenge

    A unique commemorative event on open seas presents communication challenges for several teams in need of safety updates.

  2. The Solution

    An easy-to-use and highly impactful group communications device using Iridium services allows organizers on shore to trace the location of teams and communicate critical information in real time.

  3. The Impact

    The transmission of two-way communications through location-based services and audio allowed fans to be engaged in an unprecedented race while keeping participants safe.

  1. 3,000+kilometers traveled
  2. 7competitors

The Challenge

The 25th anniversary of Palau’s independence presented a unique opportunity to organize the commemorative Japan-Palau Goodwill Yacht Race, the success of which would rely on strong communication capabilities for all parties involved.

In order to ensure safety over the course of this 3000 kilometers race, roll calls were organized twice a day to check wind direction, and positioning and boat condition of racers. Existing technology such as satellite phones, VHF marine radios, and Geostationary (GEO) networks fail to meet the unique combination of distance, real-time feedback, and multiway call abilities that this particular race required. This presented the necessity for a dependable communication tool that would provide wireless connectivity for efficient and effective information sharing between all yachts and could withstand adverse weather conditions.

The Solution

Iridium Connected® Icom IC-SAT100 allows for real-time, weather-resilient Push-To-Talk (PTT) services.

With just a push of a button, the IC-SAT100 allows one person to instantly connect with a group of users dispersed anywhere in the world over the Iridium network. The combination of Iridium’s Low Earth Orbit satellites which enable widespread connectivity, in addition to its license-free usability made the IC-SAT100 the best choice for the Yacht Race organizers. Additionally, through Iridium’s partnership with FURUNO, organizers received vessel-tracking system capabilities that allowed location data to be automatically transmitted through Iridium’s Short Burst Data® service and displayed on the race’s official website.

The Impact

The dynamic real-time location and communication capabilities of Iridium’s IC-SAT100 proved pivotal to the success of the Japan-Palau Goodwill Yacht Race.

Through the use of this powerful device and network, organizers and participants were able to easily communicate and share crucial logistical and safety information. The Short Burst Data® transmissions enabled fans and participants to be engaged in the race through live rankings and through high-quality audio insights on the progress of each team.

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