DATE: January 8, 2009 11:01:35 AM EST
How SARSAT works
How SARSAT works

Beginning Feb. 1, 2009, the Coast Guard and other search-and-rescue personnel will only receive distress alerts broadcast using digital 406 MHz Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons. Search and rescue satellites will no longer process older model analog EPIRBs that only transmit on 121.5 or 243 MHz.

The COSPAS-SARSAT is an international satellite system whose mission is to protect life and property by providing accurate, timely, and reliable distress and security alert and location information to search and rescue authorities.

This is an illustration of how the system works.

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