Radar Observer · Collision Avoidance — TCPA
TCPA on a radar/ARPA readout represents the:
- ATrue course of the target
- BTime remaining until the target reaches its closest point of approach✓ Correct
- CTotal cargo per acre
- DTransmitter power
Explanation
Time to CPA (TCPA) is how long until the contact reaches its closest point of approach. A short TCPA with a small CPA signals an urgent risk of collision requiring early action.
Authority: Radar Plotting (USCG topic)
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