Meshtastic is a relatively new digital mesh network technology that uses LoRa for low-power, long-range digital communications. Although it uses LoRa, it is not LoRaWAN. Meshtastic has defined their own network protocol. It is meant to provide an off-grid communications capability suited to situations such as in emergencies where normal communications may be disrupted. Additionally it uses the unlicensed ISM bands so that anyone can use a with a node can join and use a local mesh network. Unlicensed use allows nodes to operate with up to 1 watt transmit power.

Meshtastic also has provisions for Amateur licensed use which allows the node to operate at higher power levels above the 1 watt limit.

The STEMLab Meshtastic node demonstrates the use of LoRa as a long-distance communications protocol. Its high vantage point gives it the node the ability to reach throughout San Diego County to the south and west.

The PARC node is a Station G1 Meshtastic device by B&Q Consulting as shown below.

Using the PARC Meshtastic nodes requires you to have a Meshtastic node of your own to talk to it. PARC's node is identified as "PARC W6NWG" and is open to anyone.

Most Meshtastic nodes are inexpensive IoT devices with limited or no displays and controls. Rather you control it through a Meshtastic app on a phane or computer with Bluetooth or through a wireless network connection. You can build your own node using an inexpensive ESP32 board. (See the references below).

Information about Meshtastic apps can be found here  ⓘ Meshtastic App Information

References:

• Meshtastic Organization  🔗 Meshtastic.org
• Meshtastic DIY - How To Build Your Own Meshtastic Node ESP32 & Lora Radio  🔗 Adrenalien's Meshtastic DIY