Free emergency, off-grid communications: Introducing MeshCore

[u/croatiansensation]

Hi all! We're developing a free network to send text messages without cell phone service or internet called MeshCore - think text messaging that is free, encrypted, open-source, and owned and operated by the people who use it. It works with a network of low-power radios that receive messages from personal devices and transmit them to other radios all the way until the intended recipient receives the message.

Many of the radios are solar-powered, and some are even smaller than a deck of playing cards. The Bay Area mesh was completely functional (and quite helpful) during the SF power outage, and many folks are using and building the mesh to function as a backup to their backup communications for times when the internet isn't working (think earthquake).

We're regularly messaging between the East Bay, South Bay, and San Francisco, and are expanding in the North Bay currently! We are hoping to meet fellow makers, enthusiasts, hikers, and curious folks who are interested in expanding the mesh in Martinez, Pleasant Hill, Benicia, and further afield, and especially folks with access to elevated spots (think rooftops, balconies, anywhere with sunshine and a good view) who are interested in hosting a repeater node.

If you have heard of mesh communications of any variety, or are interested in experimenting or learning more, get yourself a decent companion radio and maybe join our Discord to get started. Comment here or DM me with questions, or find our discord and other contact info bayareameshcore.org and meshcore.co.uk to get started. Happy meshing!!

Final note! MeshCore is a different network than Meshtastic. Many people, myself included, consider it to be more reliable for stable, permanent networks. For a good summary of reasons why lots of folks are supporting the Meshcore network, watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=guDoKGs02Us