EXTREME temperatures and a hostile Antarctic environment will be the ultimate testing ground for an exciting new satellite communications product produced by a Barnsley-based business.

SATcase, based at Wharncliffe Business Park, has joined forces with a former Royal Marine Commando, Regimental Sergeant Major Barry Gray, known as Baz, who is embarking on The Challenge Antarctica project.

It’s an adventure of a lifetime over the next two Antarctic summers and provides the perfect environment for SATcase, a newly designed global communicator and a lifesaving device in one.

SATcase uses advanced satellite communications technology designed to operate with a smart phone. It transforms a mobile phone into a ruggedised global satellite phone and will operate at temperatures between -20 and +55 degrees Celsius.

Next month, Baz, of Devon, will journey from Hercules Inlet to the South Pole solo, unsupported and unassisted. It will be more than 700 miles and he will be attempting to be only the third man in history to do this in under one month. Phase two, in November 2019, will see Baz attempt to be the first man to cross the entire Antarctic continent from coast to coast including the two permanent ice shelves. If successful he will become the first man to do this solo, unsupported, and unassisted by kites.

Trevor Parker, of SATcase, who is also a former Royal Marine Commando, said: “SATcase is a completely new and unique product. Unlike other satellite communications products on the market place it is completely ruggedised to withstand the elements and operates at temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius. “It also enables the user to make calls and has an immediate SOS track and trace facility.

“This is an extremely demanding task and Baz’s success will mean he will become the first person in history to achieve such a mission. Every ounce of physical and mental strength will be needed, and we are proud to provide SATcase as an essential piece of equipment to enhance his chances of success.”