Design and implementation of a robust data logging and satellite telemetry system for remote cryospheric research

Oulkar, S.N. and Peacey, M.W. and Mitrev, M. and Quincey, D.J. and Hubbard, B. and Matthews, T. and Oulkar, A.S. and Miles, K.E. and Rowan, A.V. (2026) Design and implementation of a robust data logging and satellite telemetry system for remote cryospheric research. Geoscientific Instrumentation, Methods and Data Systems, 15 (1). pp. 75-88. ISSN 2193-0856

Abstract

Scientific research in remote environments has traditionally relied on manual data retrieval from data loggers, requiring multiple field visits that are costly, logistically challenging, and sometimes hazardous. While satellite telemetry solutions exist, their integration with widely used research-grade data loggers in extreme environments remains poorly documented, limiting reproducibility and adoption. This study presents the design and implementation of a data logging and telemetry system deployed in the Western Cwm of Mount Everest/Sagarmatha, Nepal, to transmit several meteorological parameters from an automatic weather station and firn layer temperatures obtained from a suite of borehole thermistors. Drawing on recent advances in satellite Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity, we present the integration and deployment of Campbell Scientific data loggers with Ground Control's compact satellite-enabled RockREMOTE Mini, which uses the Iridium Certus 100 networks and is powered by Iridium's 9770 modem. This work represents the first documented integration of research-grade Campbell Scientific loggers with Iridium Certus 100 satellite IoT technology, providing validated protocols, performance metrics, and automated workflows for extreme environments. The system, which operated at 6660 m a.s.l., in an extremely cold climate with a limited sky-view factor due to steep surrounding terrain, provided continual monitoring of ice temperatures and meteorological conditions transmitted every 24 h, from 4 May to 10 August 2025. Data integrity and transmission reliability were consistently maintained, with 100 % data retrieval, despite the challenging environmental conditions and limited power availability. The system established a robust methodological framework for other researchers working in remote locations, demonstrating the potential for sustained and high temporal resolution measurements of environmental conditions in locations where traditional communication infrastructure is unavailable.