SKYNETA PROGRAM OF RESILIENT NETWORK PUERTO RICO, INC.
SKYNET TECHNOLOGY · OPEN SOURCE

What is Meshtastic?

Meshtastic is a community-driven, open-source, off-grid mesh communications project designed for affordable, low-power devices using LoRa radio technology.

ONE OF THE TECHNOLOGIES USED WITHIN SKYNET
THE BASICS

Long-range communication without traditional infrastructure.

Meshtastic enables compatible LoRa radios to exchange text messages and other supported data over a decentralized mesh. The radio network itself does not require cellular towers, Wi-Fi, or Internet connectivity. A phone can be used to configure and interact with a node, but the radios can participate in the mesh without a phone remaining connected.

Long RangeLoRa is designed for low-data-rate communication over relatively long distances using low power.
DecentralizedThere is no dedicated central router required for the basic radio mesh.
Mesh RelayingNodes can relay packets so a message may travel beyond a single direct radio link.
Low PowerSupported devices are designed around energy-efficient radios suitable for portable and remote installations.
Encrypted MessagingMeshtastic provides encrypted channel communications. Users still need to configure channels and keys responsibly.
Location FeaturesCompatible nodes can optionally share position information when configured to do so.
HOW IT FITS INTO SKYNET

Meshtastic is a foundation, not the whole platform.

SKYNET uses Meshtastic as one communications technology within Resilient Network Puerto Rico's broader resilient communications program.

SKYNET can combine Meshtastic-compatible field nodes with fixed community infrastructure, resilient gateways, monitoring systems, local data storage, mapping, automation, network analytics, training, and Internet-linked services when connectivity is available. RNPR also intends to evaluate other appropriate communications technologies as the program evolves.

This distinction matters: SKYNET is an RNPR program. Meshtastic is an independent open-source project that provides important technology used by many communities around the world.

HOW A SIMPLE MESH WORKS

From one node to another.

1Node A sendsA compatible radio transmits a packet over LoRa.
→
2Other nodes hear itNearby nodes may receive and, when appropriate, relay the packet.
→
3Node B receivesThe message can reach a node that was not necessarily in direct range of the sender.

Actual range and delivery depend on terrain, antennas, radio settings, interference, node placement, airtime limits, and network conditions. A mesh should not be described as guaranteed coverage.

COMMUNITY USE

Why RNPR is interested in it.

For RNPR, Meshtastic is useful because it provides a practical way for communities to learn about radio networking and experiment with low-power communications that can continue operating locally when conventional connectivity is limited. It can support normal community communication, training, field experimentation, and resilient-network development.

SKYNET supplements existing communications capabilities. It is not a replacement for 911, public-safety communications, cellular service, or official emergency-alert systems.

CREDIT & ATTRIBUTION

Meshtastic is an independent open-source project.

The Meshtastic project describes itself as an open-source, off-grid, decentralized mesh network built for affordable, low-power devices. RNPR appreciates the work of the Meshtastic developers, maintainers, contributors, documentation writers, hardware community, and users who make the project possible.

Trademark and relationshipMeshtastic® is a registered trademark of Meshtastic LLC. Resilient Network Puerto Rico, Inc. and SKYNET are independent and are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Meshtastic LLC.
Open-source licensingMeshtastic software components are released under open-source licenses. Licensing can vary by repository or component, so anyone redistributing or modifying Meshtastic software should review the license and notices in the applicable official repository.
Official Meshtastic website ↗Official documentation ↗Official GitHub organization ↗
CONNECT

Join the SKYNET community channel.

If you already have a compatible Meshtastic device, you can import SKYNET's community channel configuration using our channel link.

Open SKYNET channel in Meshtastic →View joining instructions