The firm behind the tracking technology being used at this year’s Iditarod has claimed their gadgetry will ensure mushers stay safe.

IonEarth, Iridium Communications and SatCom Global will provide a GPS tracking device for each of the 71 sleds taking part in the Last Great Race, which kicks off in Anchorage tomorrow (March 6th 2010).

The equipment allows officials to find out where all participants are located on the 1,000-mile course.

Fans can also track the progress of their favourite mushers using a 3-D map on the race’s official website.

Executive director of the Iditarod Stan Hooley remarked: "The Iridium tracking devices and phone handsets will again provide a critical safety lifeline for mushers, dogs, veterinarians, medics, media, bush pilots and volunteers who man the isolated checkpoints along the trail."

Sled dog stars set to take to the course include three-time winner Lance Mackey, rookie Newton Marshall and Yukon Quest 2010 winner Hans Gatt.