How OneWeb’s LEO Connectivity Is Powering the Mining Sector

The mining industry has long been hindered by the challenges of remote locations and limited access to terrestrial networks. Despite the abundance of resources waiting to be extracted, many mining sites remain disconnected from the rest of the world. However, OneWeb’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) technology opens up a host of new opportunities. 

Autonomous operations, drone surveillance, and data analytics are just a few of the ways that LEO technology can help mining and exploration operations reduce costs and mitigate risks. The industry is set to soar to new heights of safety, efficiency, and productivity, making it crucial to delve into the benefits and important factors to keep in mind while implementing this technology.

So, let’s get started!

Interoperability: The ability to establish interoperability is critical for mining operations, and it cannot be overstated how crucial it is for all systems to communicate efficiently. OneWeb's satellite network possesses a distinct advantage due to its ability to interoperate with a vast array of devices and systems, including legacy satellite networks.

Enhanced Communication and Collaboration: The benefits of LEO connectivity extend to enhancing collaboration between remote sites and headquarters. OneWeb's satellites orbit at an altitude of approximately 1,200 km. Significantly lower than traditional geostationary satellite networks. This lower altitude results in faster data transfer rates and lower latency, making it an excellent fit for real-time applications that require timely and accurate data. 

This means mining and industrial organizations can connect their remote camps to headquarter offices through a virtual private network (VPN). By leveraging video conferencing and cloud collaboration systems like Microsoft Teams, communication can be streamlined and made more efficient across different sites.

Navigating Compliance: Mining operations rely on sensors and monitoring equipment to collect data on various site and environmental conditions, ranging from temperature and humidity to air and water quality. However, LEO technology presents a significant advancement in this field – enabling improved IoT-based asset management, remote diagnostics, equipment optimization, and regulatory compliance.

OneWeb's satellite connectivity provides a solution, such as drone surveying, to ensure real-time monitoring of mining camps. This allows for rapid identification and response to any issues or hazards.

Network Innovations is at the forefront of providing products and services to ensure compliance with the latest government regulations – helping mining companies navigate legal requirements, obtain necessary permits and licenses, and address data privacy and security concerns. 

Real-time Monitoring, Control and Analysis: OneWeb’s network presents exciting opportunities for mining organizations to improve asset management and predictive maintenance, enabling the transmission of data from remote sensors and supports continuous monitoring or fixed and mobile equipment.

Network Innovations partners with OneWeb to support the integration of IoT devices and sensors – allowing companies to collect data on a range of variables such as temperature, pressure, vibration, and wear and tear.

Connectivity for Remote Workers: Having a reliable connection to family and friends is also essential in attracting workers to remote, harsh environments. OneWeb’s LEO network enhances connectivity for remote personnel in mining camps, providing access to the internet, email, social media, messaging apps, and more. In addition, it can support entertainment services, such as streaming video and music. 

Mining operators are presented with numerous important factors to consider when integrating LEO connectivity. While technical and regulatory obstacles, as well as cost considerations, can make the road ahead appear daunting, the right partner can make all the difference.

As a trusted OneWeb distribution partner, Network Innovations provides customized solutions tailored to the unique needs of each mining operation – ensuring those of the digital mine are connected securely and seamlessly. 

In our recent white paper, “Mining In A Connected World: The Impact of OneWeb’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Connectivity,” we further explore the impact of this global network on today’s mining operations. Our aim is to assist you in understanding the extensive possibilities that LEO technology can offer to critical and remote operations.