According to a release from technology provider OneWeb, during the event Kane talked live via Instagram while at 3,560 feet above sea level. This was facilitated by the company’s Kymeta Hawk u8 “comms base”, enabling connection to its network of low Earth orbit satellites.
One web describes the technology as an “electronically steered antenna,” suitable for set up both on the ground on in-vehicle.
Discussing the technology, a spokesperson for the company said: “[Kymeta Hawk u8] has been developed for use across first responder services, as well as many other applications.
“Where network signal is disabled, not secure or non-existent, the terminal will connect ground teams in search and rescue missions with robust and stable communications from point of set-up.”
Speaking from Snowdon, Kane said: “In dark spots like Snowdonia where connectivity is at best patchy, comms going down is a huge risk. The fact that I can connect this easily, with full video capabilities on my phone is testament to the robust connectivity of the OneWeb network.”
Serve On’s Dan Cooke said: “When we are on the job, we use what we can to get the job done. But operating in the world’s most austere regions often means communications blackouts, which can be extremely dangerous.
“If we’d had this terminal while in Turkey the last few months, the difference would have been a game changer for us. From humanitarian comms hubs, networked hospitals and mobile aid units, to the welfare of locals and rescue teams being able to call loved ones when other comms are disabled. Connectivity is life.”
