To ensure the safety of our students and researchers conducting off-campus and international research, the Dean's Office of the Science Division has initiated a communication devices loaner/rental program. The program is designed to assist all students, postdoctoral fellows, and other researchers within the FAS Division of Sciences conducting fieldwork alone or in remote locations, and who may not have the financial means to purchase or rent communication or tracking devices. Please note that all international travel must be registered through the Harvard Global Support Services website.

Devices in stock and available for loan on a first-come, first-served:

• inReach Mini 2 Standards for ground use
• inReach Mini 2 Marine Bundle for use on water

inReach is a communication technology developed by Garmin, a multinational technology company. It is primarily used in satellite communications designed for people in remote areas who want to stay connected where cellphone service is not available. The technology allows two-way text messaging via the global Iridium satellite network. Users can send and receive messages, share their GPS coordinates, and even trigger an SOS to the GEOS 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center. The inReach devices also provide tracking and location sharing, so you can trace your exact path and share it with others. Additionally, they offer basic navigation, allowing you to follow routes, drop waypoints, and find your way back to a trail. A satellite subscription is required for each service and different plans are available depending on the user's needs.

Device activation and subscription plans will be selected one week before the trip.

The FAS Science Division has also established a satellite phone rental account through SatellitePhones catering to travelers who require Satellite phones and StarLinks Roam Travel kits for their trips. The selection of device models will be recommended based on your specific destination. However, it's important to note that certain countries prohibit entry of satellite devices. Consequently, this service may not be applicable if your travel plans include one of these countries.

How can I borrow or rent a device?

1. Submit your request HERE at least three weeks before your departure date.
2. When your request is approved, devices in stock will be picked up from the Science Division Dean’s office at @52 Oxford St., Northwest Labs 415. Non-stocked devices (Satellite phones and StarLinks) will be rented from satellitephones through the FAS Science Division’s satellite phone rental account and shipped directly to the traveler.
3. Travelers with the financial capability to afford the rental cost can still utilize the Science Division's rental account, gaining access to any associated discounts. However, they will be responsible for their rental expenses. The Science division will only cover the rental cost for students and other researchers who do not have the means to cover rental costs of non-stocked devices.

How should I return my device?

1. You will be responsible for deleting your messages before returning the devices (inReach).
2. Return the inReach devices and all the accessories to the Science Division Dean’s office at @52 Oxford St., Northwest Labs 415 within seven (7) days of your return to the United States.
3. Satellite phones and other devices rented from the satellite phone company will be returned directly to the company and will follow the company return policy.

What should I do if my device is lost, stolen, or confiscated?

Contact Patricie Niyitegeka at: patricie_niyitegeka@harvard.edu immediately.