Radar Observer · Aids — SART Response

A search-and-rescue radar transponder (SART) responds to an X-band (9 GHz) radar by displaying:

Explanation

Triggered by a 9 GHz (X-band, 3 cm) radar, a SART transmits a sweep that paints twelve equally spaced blips radiating outward from the SART along its bearing. As the searching vessel closes, the blips become wider arcs and then concentric circles. SARTs do not respond to S-band (10 cm) radar, so X-band must be used to home on one.

Authority: SOLAS IV; IMO SART performance standard

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