## 2 Overview of SWARM IoT Constellation
### Comparison of Satellite Connectivities Across Different Locations  
To ensure rapid message transfer, it is crucial that both Dev 1 and Dev 2 are positioned under the paths of low-orbit satellites. The experimental setup was conducted in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, where satellite connectivity is comparatively weaker than in northern regions where this design is potentially intended for usage. As an example, Figures 3-5 illustrate the differences in satellite connectivity among three locations. These figures display the upcoming satellite paths, with variations in connection quality indicated by the maximum elevation angles and the color-coded time intervals. Darker colors and higher elevation angles signify better satellite connections and, thus, faster message transfer. Based on these figures, Greenland offers the most optimal conditions for rapid message transmission. Figure 2: The process of the system created for the project. Dev 1 sends a message to a satellite, which forwards it to the HIVE cloud platform. AWS Webhooks monitor HIVE for new messages, triggering notifications, and processing. Responses are sent back through the satellite network to Dev 2. In our comparative analysis of signal transmission between urban and remote areas, we observed notable differences in performance. In an urban environment characterized by trees and buildings that obstructed the signal, we recorded transmission times of approximately 10 to 20 min for the signal to reach the satellite. The limited number of satellites available in the region exacerbated this delay. Furthermore, proximity to large cities also affects transmission quality. Urban areas with high-frequency signal interference and potential electronic noise can disrupt satellite communication. Thus, the optimal locations for message transmission are those situated in remote areas, away from dense urban environments. These areas offer the least signal interference and facilitate faster transmission rates, enhancing the overall efficiency of the communication system. Figure 4: Nunavut, Canada, low-orbit satellite connection [35]. The left table shows the quality of signal transfer, with color and elevation angle reflecting connection strength, as well as if the satellite is in the area. The blue pin on the map indicates where the signal was measured at that particular time and day. This location provides improved connectivity compared with Winnipeg. Figure 3: Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, low-orbit satellite connection [35]. The left table displays signal transfer quality, with color and elevation angle indicating connection strength, as well as if the satellite is in the area. The blue pin on the map marks the location of signal measurement at a specific time and day. Darker colors and higher angles represent better connectivity, though the transmission speed is slower compared with other locations. For a better understanding of the connection comparison in different regions of North America, Table 1 was created, where the evaluation intensity factor is calculated. The higher the intensity factor (points), the better connection we have for the system. This point system is used to determine the difference between six locations: three for urban and three for remote. Based on Table 1 intensity factors, Figure 6 shows the chart of the approximate distribution of connectivity using those intensity factors. The chart provides a comparison of the intensities of the connection to SWARM satellites across various locations, with higher scores indicating better connectivity to SWARM's satellite network. Urban locations, represented by dark red bars, show low connection intensities of 3, such as Winnipeg and Regina. Iqaluit, categorized as a light urban area (orange bar), has a moderate connection intensity of 9, indicating somewhat better connectivity compared with urban regions. In contrast, remote locations, indicated by green bars, have higher connection intensities ranging from 12 to 16, suggesting stronger satellite signals and more reliable connections to SWARM satellites.