Good catch on the Meshcore front. I'll pass on that too.

I'd heard the 'Reticulum' name while researching Meshtastic and just started looking into it now that you're bringing it up. It actually looks like a more complete tool than what Meshtastic has to offer, given that it can operate over more than just LoRa, plus it can do more than just text messages. (If you have a chance, I think you'll enjoy reading up on Reticulum too!)

I have a feeling that I'll be quickly collecting a lot of different devices to mess around with both of these.

As for solar nodes, I'll have to see what I can find for sale in Southeast Asia. Otherwise, shipping from overseas + customs fees could cost quite a lot. Not to mention, that having the postal inspectors going through my packages and forcing me to declare my purchases would be a quick way to destroy my privacy.