Your friendly neighborhood mesh network
Nittany Valley Mesh
A community mesh network built using Meshtastic — connecting small, low-power radios so anyone can send text messages or share GPS data completely for free, and all without cell networks or internet access.
Learn more from the official Introduction to Meshtastic or at the links below.
What is Meshtastic?
No corporations. No subscriptions. Open source and volunteer run!
Meshtastic is an open-source software that uses a radio protocol called LoRa to facilitate long-distance data networks using low-cost, low-power hardware. The feature that sets Meshtastic apart is the same reason it has "mesh" in the name. Any radio in the system can act as a repeater, linking together with others to form a larger "mesh". As such, data can "hop" from node to node as needed until it reaches the intended destination. Unlike walkie-talkies or two-way radios the information doesn’t just end when you’re out of range. Other devices on the network will extend your coverage as far as the mesh allows. All seamlessly and automatically. Did I mention it's 100% free to use? You don't even need to register or make an account...
How is it used?
First and foremost, as a simple messaging tool for staying in touch and sharing locations with friends, family members or even tracking pets.
Across the planet by hikers, campers, skiers and every type of backcountry adventurer who want to stay connected with text and GPS in remote areas.
Outside the backcountry, as a lightweight and highly resilient backup during network outages, natural disasters, or other unexpected situations.
By enthusiasts to build long-distance off-grid networks and as a hands-on way to learn radio and networking.
Anywhere there is a need for simple, adaptable and low-cost communication.
How does it work?
By using small, low-power LoRa radios that communicate with one another over long distances within the same UHF radio band as wifi and bluetooth.
Each node can pass messages along, forming a mesh where information can travel beyond the range of any single radio. As more nodes participate, the network naturally becomes more flexible and far-reaching.
Messages are short and efficient, designed to move reliably even in difficult terrain or low-signal conditions. LoRa radios trade speed and bandwidth for maximum range and minimum power consumption.
Without central infrastructure, it’s a system that grows organically around the people who use it.
How to participate?
Join The Mesh
It's highly recommended to start by reading the official documentation on the Meshtastic project. If you are going the DIY route this will be a critical source of information.
If building a device yourself seems too intimidating, don't worry there are links below for some recommended off-the-shelf options.
Try it Out
Pick a supported radio, install the app, and send a message. If you’re in range, you’re already in.
Click here or scan the QR code below to setup a new device with our preset
WARNING! This will reset your channels to defaults, only use on a new device. Otherwise please add channels manually.
Our Configuration
In order to maintain a healthy mesh network, we recommend the following configuration settings for your Meshtastic devices. These are guidelines to facilitate a stable and reliable network. They are based on the collective experience of the mesh community and will change as the mesh grows and evolves.
The device may automatically reboot after certain configuration changes. This is normal.
Region – United States (If you are reading this outside the USA please find your local mesh settings.)
Firmware – It is strongly recommended to update the latest firmware to be sure and use the latest security features. The process is quick and easy using the Web Flasher on the Meshtastic site.
Settings :
LoRa – Use the preset of “Long Range – Fast” if you want to participate in our regional mesh. Leave the rest default.
Channels – Keep the default channel in place. Leave the name and settings alone. Key should be set as default and show "AQ=="
If you want private encrypted channels you can add those as secondary channels.
Channels are where you set your GPS privacy and sharing settings! You can set Position sharing for each channel individually and the level of precision with fuzzing out to 5km. If you enable position on a public channel it will be public.
Security - Do not share your private key. You can make a backup of your security keys here. Leave the rest alone unless you know what you are doing.
User :
Long Name – This is the name of your node. This is what others will see in their node list.
Short Name – Only 4 characters and will be used in UI and maps where the long name doesn't fit.
Bluetooth - Make sure your device has a screen before you select random pin. If you don't have a screen, set a fixed pin here.
Device :
Device Role – Leaving this as Client is the safe choice, or use Client Mute or Client Hidden if you want to be more stealthy. Please refrain from using other Roles until you have read some of the documentation – This and this to start.
Grow the Mesh
Allow your client device to rebroadcast and you are contributing to the mesh automatically. Want to do more? Do you have access to a tower 100m tall? Send an email.
The Nittany Mesh Channel
Already connected? – Add our channel, Name "NittanyMesh", Key Size 8bit/1byte and Key "NQ=="
Or click here to add our channel automatically.
Join the Community
This is grass roots stuff so don't be shy. Come say "Hi" in our NittanyMesh channel. Share with your friends, start your own mini mesh or even collaborate on Meshtastic directly!
Check out the
Mesh Map
Click to load the map. Close to keep scrolling clean.
Show Map
Shows publicly shared nodes; not all nodes appear.
Network Stats
Shows publicly shared nodes; not all nodes appear.
Mesh Graph
Shows publicly shared nodes; not all nodes appear.
Learn More
No affliation with any of the following
Helpful Links
Device Recommendedations
Last updated Feb. 2026
I carry this everyday. Doubles as a wireless charger! (choose 902~928MHz for USA)
Very beginner friendly! Meshtastic meets "airtag" (My dog carries one!) improved? RAK version
A local DIY favorite! (Here is the guide for The $10 light)
V4 of the most popular node ever! (If you want the DIY experience, pick this)
Easy solar node for your roof or balcony ('Pro' version is a complete all-in-one)
Contact
Already on Meshtastic? – Add a channel, Name "NittanyMesh", Key Size 8bit/1byte and Key "NQ=="
If you’re interested in hosting a node but don't want to DIY please get in touch.