How to add the Blockstream Satellite mainnet to MetaMask.

How to Add the Blockstream Satellite Mainnet to MetaMask

Introduction

Adding the Blockstream Satellite mainnet to MetaMask extends the decentralized finance (DeFi) capabilities of MetaMask by allowing users to access the Blockstream Satellite network and its features. The Blockstream Satellite network broadcasts Bitcoin and Liquid transactions via satellite, enabling transactions in remote areas with limited or no internet connectivity. Integrating the Blockstream Satellite mainnet into MetaMask empowers users to send and receive Bitcoin and Liquid assets securely and reliably.

Prerequisites

• MetaMask extension installed on your browser
• Stable internet connection for initial setup

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Install the Blockstream Satellite Provider

• Visit the MetaMask Chrome extension page on the Chrome Web Store.
• Click on "Add to Chrome" and confirm the installation.
• Once installed, a new "Blockstream Satellite" option will appear under the "RPC Providers" tab in MetaMask's Settings.

2. Configure the Blockstream Satellite Provider

• Open MetaMask and navigate to the "Settings" tab.
• Select "RPC Providers" from the left-hand menu.
• Click on the "Custom RPC" button at the bottom of the list.

• Enter the following details:

  • Network Name: Blockstream Satellite Mainnet
  • RPC URL: satellite.blockstream.com/
  • Chain ID: 1
  • Currency Symbol: BTC or L-BTC (for Liquid Bitcoin)
  • Block Explorer URL (Optional): blockstream.info
• Click "Save" to add the Blockstream Satellite mainnet to MetaMask.

3. Enable Satellite Connectivity

• Ensure you have a stable internet connection.
• Open the MetaMask extension and click on the "Blockstream Satellite" icon.
• Click on "Enable Satellite Connectivity".
• MetaMask will initiate the satellite connection process.
• A pop-up window will appear asking for permission to share your location. Allow this permission for improved accuracy.
• Once the satellite connection is established, you will see a green "Connected" status indicator.

4. Send and Receive Bitcoin via Satellite

• With the Blockstream Satellite mainnet added to MetaMask, you can now send and receive Bitcoin and Liquid assets using the satellite network.
• Select the "Send" or "Receive" option in MetaMask as usual.
• Ensure that the "Blockstream Satellite Mainnet" is selected as the network on the transaction screen.
• Specify the recipient's address and the amount you wish to send.
• Click on "Send" to initiate the transaction.
• Your transaction will be broadcast via satellite and processed on the Bitcoin or Liquid network.

5. Monitor Transactions

• To track the status of your satellite transactions, open the MetaMask extension and select the "Activity" tab.
• You will see a list of all recent transactions, including those sent via the Blockstream Satellite mainnet.
• Click on a transaction to view its details and check its confirmation status.

6. Handle Interruptions

• In the event of any satellite connectivity issues, MetaMask will automatically switch to the default RPC provider.
• To reconnect to the satellite network, click on the "Blockstream Satellite" icon and choose "Reconnect".
• Ensure that you have a stable internet connection and that you are in an area with satellite coverage.