Inmarsat powers remote press centre for U.A.E. Desert Challenge

Desert Challenge for the third year in a row. Innovative satellite technology will power the remote press centre, while race officials will be able to manage logistics and driver safety from any location on the desert track.

The press centre, in an isolated desert area with no terrestrial communications, will be powered by Inmarsat's Regional BGAN and GAN satellite terminals, allowing sports reporters to file their stories and pictures, call their headquarters, and upload their articles to the Internet. The terminals will also allow those reporters to broadcast live from the scene.

Regional BGAN (Broadband Global Area Network) is a revolutionary communications system that enables users to surf the web, send e-mail and transfer a host of other data from anywhere within the satellite footprint. Whether travelling outside the developed world or simply outside an urban area, Regional BGAN does not rely on traditional telephone or communications, but allows independent and secure connection to the Internet and corporate computer networks. Along with Regional BGAN, the broadcast media continues to rely on Inmarsat GAN (Global Area Network), to deliver news, live, at the forefront, in areas of high public interest.

"The use of technology has been taking an increasingly important role in all aspects of our everyday life, and that extends to motor racing as well," said Samer Halawi, regional director, Inmarsat Middle East, Africa and Central Asia.

"Without Inmarsat's technology, reporters would have to send tapes and computer disks, by car, to a far away location, where the articles and videos are then sent to their final destination; of course that is not time or cost effective," added Halawi.

The Regional BGAN service will also be used by race officials during the event in order to manage logistics and keep track of drivers as they progress on the desert track, ensuring their safety at all times. Additionally, Regional BGAN will be used to deliver the rally results in real-time.

"The U.A.E Desert Challenge is a very successful and popular event but as its name suggests a highly complex and potentially dangerous one," said Halawi.

"Race organisers, drivers and fans can all benefit from instant information, instant communications and enhanced safety and control. Inmarsat are delighted to once again contribute to the success of the U.A.E. Desert Challenge and enhance the experience for race fans, with our leading-edge technology," concluded Halawi.