What does Cospas-Sarsat utilize to aid search and rescue efforts?

Cospas-Sarsat is primarily a satellite-based system specifically designed for search and rescue operations. It utilizes satellite technology to detect and locate distress signals from emergency beacons activated by aircraft, vessels, or individuals in distress. This system significantly enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of search and rescue missions by providing near-instantaneous location data to rescue coordination centers.

While ground radar systems, infrared imaging, and drones can play supportive roles in search and rescue, they do not form the core technology that Cospas-Sarsat relies on. Ground radar systems are limited to monitoring specific land areas, while infrared imaging is useful for detecting heat signatures but does not locate distress beacons. Drones can aid surveillance and reconnaissance but are not part of the Cospas-Sarsat framework, which is exclusively focused on satellite communication and positioning. Thus, satellite technology is essential for the Cospas-Sarsat system’s operations and capabilities.