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Microstar Specifications


 General

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Depth of Measurement

  • 1 meter

Position

  • Multi-constellation GNSS receiver supports GPS and other GNSS constellations depending on receiver configuration.
  • GNSS acquisition windows are optimized for low-power operation and may be extended upon request to improve fix reliability or enable augmentation features where available, with a corresponding reduction in battery life.

Telemetry

  • Iridium SBD with Iridium 9602 Modem
  • Globalstar Satellite, Smartone C (optional)

Standard Status Sensors

  • Battery Voltage
  • GNSS Position
  • Position Quality
  • Drifter-deployed-in-conductive-water or drogue-on sensor

Standard Battery Pack

  • 12 V; 8S2P alkaline C cells; estimated 15 Ah capacity

Optional Status Sensors

  • Internal Surface Sphere Temperature

Optional Sensors

  • Sea Surface Temperature (SST)
  • High Accuracy SST

Battery Lifespan

  • Operating life: 1-24 months with standard 15 Ah battery pack, depending on sampling/transmission rate and field conditions. Harsh weather or rough seas can increase GPS acquisition time and transmission retries, reducing battery life.

Deployment Options

  • Manually from vessel, oil platform etc.
  • Aircraft deployment option available

Surface Float

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Diameter

  • 8 in (20 cm)

Weight

  • 5 lbs (2.2 kg)

Material

  • ABS Plastic

Color

  • White (Standard)
  • Orange Top (Optional)

Protected Sea Surface Temperature (SST) Probe

  • Yes

Sea Surface Temperature (SST) Probe Depth

  • 3.5 in (9 cm)

Power Mode Switch

  • Magnet

 Drogue

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Type

  • Radar Reflector Shape

Depth of Measurement

  • 1 meter

Length x Width

  • 48 in (122 cm) x 48 in (122 cm)

Weight

  • 4.9 lbs (2.2 kg) out of water

Material

  • PVC frame with Nylon drogue

Drag Area Ratio

  • Greater than 40

Tether

  • 3/16 in (0.48 cm) Synthetic Rope

Drogue Opening Options

  • Manual
  • Automatic by water contact

Packaging

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Total Weight

  • 10 lbs (4.5 kg)

Carrying Case (Optional)

  • Zippered Nylon Bag

Environmental Sensor Details

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Sea Surface Temperature (SST)

Accuracy 0.1 °C, Range -5 to 40 °C

High Accuracy SST

Accuracy 0.05 °C, Range -5 to 40 °C