SPOT is a good service and has been around for years. I've used it
since before they introduced "shared page" tracking. Delorme InReach,
especially the InReach SE, is a better product but at a higher operating
cost. The Explorer version can also be used for navigation. With InReach
you can dictate an SMS to your mobile phone and through bluetooth and
satellite send it, and receive a response.
But better quality at a higher cost is not what the original post was about!
APRS over the amateur radio band is a possibility.
>>> Requires an amateur radio licence for anyone who will be
broadcasting. <<<
APRS uses a radio like the Yaesu VX-8R with GPS module. Or aByonics
system likethe $260US Micro-Trak AIO will track automatically, but is of
no use as a 2-way communications radio. The Yaesu can be used for voice
communications over the amateur radio band pre/post-flight.
Usage(standard protocol is 3-minute intervals which include Lat/Lon,
Alt, Speed, Direction) is free. Tracking is monitored on a website like
aprs.fi or openaprs.net at no charge. They will accept a donation if you
choose.
Jim
Associated links:
Getting an amateur radio licence:
http://www.wia.org.au/licenses/foundation/about/
APRS information:
http://www.aprs.net.au/
Delorme:
http://www.inreachdelorme.com/
VX-8R:
http://www.yaesu.com/indexVS.cfm?cmd=DisplayProducts&ProdCatID=111&encProdID=64C913CDBC183621AAA39980149EA8C6
Byonics:
http://www.byonics.com/mt-aio
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