Why incorporate satellite data into the Tribe blockchain?

At Tribe, we're working on an innovative system that leverages the capabilities of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites to enable data transmission from remote locations, particularly for Internet of Things (IoT) and Machine-to-Machine (M2M) devices.

Our focus is not on providing continuous global coverage like systems such as Starlink, but rather on creating a network that can handle intermittent data transmission. As long as there are multiple satellite passes per day, our system can effectively serve its purpose.

The key advantage of using LEO satellites in our system is their accessibility for low-power devices. These devices can directly upload data to the satellites using a simple antenna, without the need for expensive transmitters and/or dish installations. This makes our system practical and cost-effective for remote IoT and M2M applications.

Our system essentially functions as a store-and-forward mechanism. When a satellite passes overhead, devices transmit their data, which is then stored on the satellite. The satellite subsequently forwards the data to a ground station when it comes into range. This data is then logged onto the Tribe blockchain, providing a secure and immutable record of the data transmission.

Furthermore, we're exploring the potential of integrating a micropayment system into this network. This could enable devices to make small payments for the data they transmit, opening up new possibilities for data monetization and resource allocation.

We're also considering the concept of a Super Masternode with direct satellite connectivity. This could provide valuable services and functionality within the constraints of the 160-byte limit for the transactions on the Tribe blockchain.

In summary, we're building a system that leverages the unique advantages of LEO satellites to enable data transmission from remote locations, with potential applications in IoT and M2M communications. While it may not offer continuous global coverage, it serves the specific purpose of facilitating communication between devices in remote locations, and holds significant potential for future advancements.