Navigation General · Radar Principles
A racon is BEST described as:
- AA passive radar reflector fitted to an aid to navigation to enhance its echo
- BA transponder on an aid to navigation that replies to radar pulses with a coded signal✓ Correct
- CAn automatic identification system transponder used by vessels to report position
- DA shore-based radar that tracks vessels and broadcasts their positions
Explanation
A racon (radar beacon) is an active transponder mounted on a buoy, lighthouse, or other aid. When triggered by a vessel's radar pulse, it transmits a coded reply that appears on the vessel's PPI as a distinctive Morse-code dash extending outward from the racon's position, allowing positive identification of the aid.
Authority: Radar Navigation Manual (Pub. 1310), Ch. 5
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