GMDSS Radio Survey Blog
Cospas-Sarsat is an international satellite-based system. It detects and locates the radio beacons activated by persons, aircraft or ships in life-threatening situations. The alert data is forwarded to authorities responsible for rescue operations.
Most people have hardly heard of this technology, while beacons interacting with the Cospas-Sarsat system surround us everywhere. They are on the life rafts in the aircraft, as well as in the cabins of pilots. They are found on almost every ship sailing in international waters, and often on the lifejackets of the crews. Emergency beacons are installed on many recreational craft. They may be in the backpacks of hikers, alpinists, or people working in remote areas - regions where the Cospas-Sarsat radio beacon may be the only means of communication in a situation critical for life.
