■ SART(Search and Rescue Radar Transponder

A search and reascue radar transponder(SART) is a means within the GMDSS for locating vessels in distress or their survival craft. The SART operates in the 9GHz frequency band and generates a series of response signals on being interrogated by any ordinary 9 GHz X band shipborne radar or suitable airborne radar.

The SART should have sufficient battery capacity to operate in the stand-by condition for 96 hours
followed by a minimum 8 hours of transmission while being interrogated by a radar.

The IMO recommended performance standard for SART calls for a range of "up to at least 5 n miles", for a SART mounted 1m above sea level. This assumes a search radar complying with IMO requirements, with its antenna 15m above sea level. Tests have shown the importance of maintaining the SART antenna height of at least 1m above sea level.

A well mounted SART in moderate weather conditions is capable of giving a detection range of over 10 n miles to a large vessel radar.

Basic concept of the Search and Rescue Radar Transponder(SART)