For my capstone, I worked with Josh to build and test an open-source off-grid communication system. We call this system Ski Net. It is based on an ESP32 board called a Heltec V3 and V4. We created this system as a replacement or an addition to any skier, outdoorsman, hunter, fisherman, or first responder’s personal carry. It allows users to communicate with a network of other users completely independent of any preexisting infrastructure. It doesn’t need internet, cell service, or satellite to communicate; the device does every aspect of the end-to-end encrypted communication. So for people who are outdoors, like hunters or skiers, it lets them talk and send their location when they have no cell service. However, for the first responders, it allows them to establish a critical communication infrastructure in a worst-case scenario when that preexisting network has been knocked out due to a natural disaster.

This project was inspired by reflections and each side is the opposite of the other.