🛁 About This Project
What began as a simple curiosity quickly evolved into a larger mission.
I started experimenting with Meshtastic to create a resilient, long-range LoRa communication network for my family — a backup system in case mobile networks went offline due to power outages, natural disasters, or remote travel. I was inspired by similar networks successfully deployed in places like St. Louis, Missouri, where tornadoes regularly disrupt cellular infrastructure.
The deeper I explored this open-source protocol, the more I appreciated the elegance of decentralized mesh networking. It felt like a modern take on the ham radio tradition — but encrypted, low-power, and entirely open-source.
📍 Current Network Coverage
This map shows the current repeater coverage of the Swiss Meshtastic Mesh Network I’m actively participating in and helping expand.
With connections stretching from Bern to Brig, from Zürich to Plaine Morte, this mesh is growing steadily — for hikers, off-grid enthusiasts, and anyone who believes in digital self-reliance. One day, I’d love to bridge the network all the way to Milano — but crossing the Alps will be quite the challenge.
🚀 My Main Nodes
- Scruch Overland – Overland unit with GPS, solar, mounted on my Jeep
If things ever go sideways… I’ve just finished outfitting my Jeep with a hardened GrapheneOS device and a Heltec Meshtastic node for off-grid, encrypted, and always connected coms.. (old CB radio in the trunk)#Prepping #wrangler #jeep #Meshtastic #JeepBuild #jeeplife pic.twitter.com/0gTjjvsV0f
— gabriele barni (@gabrielebarni) May 24, 2025
- Scruch RP – High balcony node, optimized for urban relaying
- Scruch Base – Indoor hub node, always-on, connected via USB
- Scruch Test – Indoor hub node testing firmware