Ice Buoy for Tracking Polar Ice Movements Using GPS/GLONASS

The ice buoy is designed to track polar ice movements. The device obtains its coordinates using GPS and Glonass satellite navigation systems and transmits them in SBD messages of the Iridium satellite communication system. Additionally, the device can collect data from external sensors via ISM 869 MHz radio channel. The schedule of data collection and sending, as well as the format of messages and protocol of work with external sensors are programmable and can be changed remotely. The mass and dimensions of the device allow its installation by quadrocopters, while the design of the device allows dropping it on a solid surface from a height of up to 10 metres. Special circuitry solutions ensure operation in the cold down to -40 degrees and below.