Turkish satellite technologies company Plan-S has developed the country’s first domestically produced satellite tracking device to support the conservation of endangered loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta).
In collaboration with Pamukkale University’s Sea Turtle Research, Rescue and Rehabilitation Center (DEKAMER), the company deployed its locally manufactured device on a young turtle named “Cosmos” at Dalyan’s İztuzu Beach. The device, previously imported at a cost of around $5,000, can now be produced locally at significantly lower cost, strengthening both Türkiye’s technological independence and the sustainability of wildlife conservation efforts.
The tracker integrates with Plan-S’s existing constellation of 17 Connecta IoT Network satellites, transmitting location and movement data directly to orbit. Scientists then analyze the information to better understand migration routes and habitats, contributing to species protection.
After initial tests in July with DEKAMER, further refinements were made in cooperation with the Ecological Research Association (EKAD) along Antalya’s 60-kilometer coastal stretch from Lara to Manavgat. The final version was officially introduced in Dalyan during a public event attended by local officials, where the tagged turtle was released back into the sea.
Beyond marine conservation, Plan-S also intends to expand similar tracking projects to land animals.
“High Technology Meets Nature Conservation”
Umut Yıldız, Deputy General Manager for Scientific Studies at Plan-S, emphasized that the company is leveraging space technologies not only for commercial purposes but also for protecting the planet.
“This project is one of our most meaningful efforts, combining high technology with environmental awareness,” Yıldız said. “In the future, we aim to extend these initiatives beyond the seas to protect land species as well. We hope these projects will make a significant contribution to preserving biodiversity and passing it on to future generations.”
Source: Anadolu Ajansı/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök