Meet the STA Explorer – Your New Field Companion

At TerraLab, we believe the best technology is the kind you barely have to think about, because it just works. When we released the STA Logger, it changed the way land management activities were recorded, reported, and integrated into GIS workflows. From contractors to conservation groups, our customers embraced a system that was rugged, simple, automated, and reliable.

Now, we’re proud to introduce the next step in that journey: the STA Explorer.

The STA Explorer builds on everything people loved about the STA Logger, with updated hardware, smarter firmware, and an all-new level of versatility. It’s not just an upgrade. It’s a reimagining of what field data collection can be.

Here’s what’s new:

  • Updated Firmware: Faster, smarter, and even more reliable in tough field conditions

  • More Powerful Internals: Improved performance and responsiveness with more onboard intelligence

  • 40% Lighter: Easier to carry, mount, and use, especially on long workdays

  • USB-C Charging: Weatherproof, fast, and future-proof

  • Automatic Tree Planting Detection: The built-in accelerometer can detect planting activity without any user input

  • Integrated Mapping Button and 3-Way Switch: Intuitive controls whether you’re planting, spraying, or spot-treating

  • Flexible Mounting Options: Compatible with existing STA Logger anchors, zip-tie slots, or our new sled and silicone straps

  • Backwards Compatible: Works with your existing STA Logger accessories and uses the same subscription

STA explorer fitted to a backpack sprayer.

Picture this:

  • On Monday, the STA Explorer is mounted to a backpack sprayer for weed treatment

  • On Tuesday, the same device is fitted to a tree planting spade and automatically detects planting activity

  • On Wednesday, it logs operations on a boom sprayer

  • On Thursday, it’s used for cut-and-paint work with herbicide

  • On Friday, all your data is already uploaded and ready to view in your GIS

That’s the beauty of a universal device. One unit, one system, one automated workflow. No apps to switch, no different loggers to juggle, no time-consuming uploads. It just works.

For users needing survey-grade accuracy, we’re also introducing a STA Explorer High-Accuracy . This version includes a GPS antenna and captures additional data for post-processed kinematic (PPK) workflows. With access to a suitable base station, this version can deliver centimetre-level accuracy.

A future subscription tier will allow this data to be automatically processed, making high-accuracy workflows available even to teams without specialist GIS knowledge.

If the STA Logger is the rugged workhorse, the STA Explorer is its agile, highly adaptable sibling. Lighter, smarter, and more flexible, it is designed for the growing needs of land managers, contractors, and conservation professionals.

And of course, it still offers:

  • Fully automated uploads

  • GIS-ready data

  • Proven durability

  • Simple, intuitive operation

  • Designed in Australia, with local support

STA explorer high-accuracy fitted to a planting spade.

STA Explorers are already going out to our field partners for real-world trials.

We are now taking pre-orders ahead of a Q4 release, so you can be among the first to add the STA Explorer to your toolkit. Whether you're upgrading from the STA Logger or starting fresh, the STA Explorer delivers greater flexibility and smarter data with the same seamless integration you already trust.

Get in touch to reserve your units.