Connecting to Communication Satellites

CAUTION

Satellite coverage for this device is only available in the continental United States, select parts of Canada, and most of Europe. In areas of the globe above 65 degrees north, the satellite network will orbit below the horizon and be unable to provide a clear connection.

When using a geostationary communication satellite connection, you must ensure that you have a clear view of the sky and that you stop moving, use the pointing interface to orient your device toward the satellite, and tilt the device at the correct elevation angle. Connecting to the satellites may take 30 seconds or more of good satellite signal strength.

On a fēnix 9 Pro - inReach watch with an active inReach service plan, you can connect to a two-way geostationary communication satellite when you are outside of an LTE coverage area.

Communication satellites travel in a geostationary orbit, meaning their position in the sky is fixed, and are much farther away than the GNSS satellites in low Earth orbit that are used for navigation. In order to connect to a geostationary communication satellite, you must use the pointing interface of your watch to point your watch in the direction of the satellite and tilt the watch at the correct elevation angle. If you are unable to make a connection due to obstructions, then you must move to a new location where you have a clear view of the satellite.

1. While outside of an LTE coverage area, select an option:
   • Initiate an SOS rescue (Initiating an SOS Rescue).
   • Send a Messenger text message (Using the Messenger App).
   • Send a check-in message (Sending a Check-In Message).
   • Check for new messages (Checking for Messages).
   • Request an inReach weather forecast (Requesting an inReach Weather Forecast).

Animated instructions appear on the watch.

2. Hold the watch up, and turn until you are facing the satellite with the highlighted region on the compass covering the icon.

3. Rotate the watch until the icon is enclosed in the circle .

TIP: If you have trouble connecting, you can try removing the watch from your wrist and pointing the back of the watch towards the communication satellite. Then follow steps 2 and 3.

4. Wait while the watch connects to the satellite and sends your communication data.