Support
Help with NorthSat setup, device readings, maps and your NS-1.
Common questions
Getting started
How do I set up NorthSat?
No account is required. Choose your workspace and use case, then follow the setup steps. You can continue without hardware and skip optional permissions.
To revisit your choices, open Profile, then Workspace, then Edit setup.
Do I need hardware or a service plan?
The app is free to use. NS-1 hardware, a compatible SIM and connectivity services are separate. Viewing available readings does not require a Bluetooth connection.
Satellite service depends on compatible equipment, an active service plan, coverage and operating conditions. The coverage overview in the app is an illustration, not a live network-status display or a guarantee of service.
What works offline?
The mobile app includes an interface that can open offline, and saved setup choices remain on the device. New readings, online maps, place labels and external resources need internet access.
Readings & maps
Why are readings missing or out of date?
Pull down on Home or Readings to refresh. NorthSat displays records received by its backend and does not continuously refresh in the background.
Previously loaded readings can remain visible after a failed refresh. Check the received time and position age. A new reading without coordinates does not update the device’s reported position. Blank measurements are unavailable.
Why is a device missing from the map?
A device needs a received position before it appears on the map. Check its power, configuration and connectivity. Map imagery and place labels need internet access.
The phone-location button centers the map on your phone. It does not update an NS-1’s reported position.
Hardware & permissions
How do I use the satellite direction guide?
Open Profile, then Workspace, then Direction aligner. On a supported phone, allow location and motion access, hold the phone flat and follow the guide. Manual guidance is available if sensors or permissions are unavailable.
The guide estimates direction to TerreStar-1. Alignment confirms the phone’s direction, not satellite reception or a successful NS-1 transmission. Check reception on the hardware separately.
How do I connect with Bluetooth?
Turn on Bluetooth, keep your module nearby and select Find my NS-1. Choose your intended device; other nearby Bluetooth Low Energy devices may appear. You can skip this step.
Connecting does not configure satellite service or transfer device readings. Automatic reconnection is not currently available.
Can I change permissions or receive alerts?
You can deny optional permissions or change them later in your phone’s settings. Location, motion and Bluetooth access support the related features.
The current release does not provide remote telemetry alerts or outgoing satellite messaging. NorthSat is not an emergency calling or rescue service.
Data & privacy enquiries
Is the device feed private?
The current NorthSat feed is public and requires no login. Published device information can include identifiers, messages and reported coordinates. Team and Enterprise setup choices do not create private access to this data.
Who can help with data or analytics questions?
Email info@alkainnovations.ca with the subject “NorthSat privacy enquiry” for questions about app data, analytics, access or deletion. Describe your request without including credentials or unnecessary sensitive information.