COSPSAS-SARSAT and EMS SATCOM
- COSPAS SARSAT Alerts
- Automation of beacon info processing
- Visual display of SAR data
COSPAS-SARSAT is a satellite system designed to provide distress alert and location data to assist search and rescue (SAR) operations, using spacecraft and ground facilities to detect and locate the signals of distress beacons (EPIRBs, ELTs, PLBs) and a network of control centers to process and distribute data to SAR authorities. Since it became operational in 1984, the system has been used in thousands of SAR events and has been responsible for the saving of several thousands of lives world-wide.
The LEOSAR and GEOSAR Satellite System Concepts
Polar orbiting satellites (LEO) used in the COSPAS-SARSAT system provide a global, but non continuous coverage, for the detection and the positioning of distress beacons using a Doppler location technique. Satellites in geostationary Earth orbit (GEO) are used to reduce delays in the alerting process (the "wait" for a LEO satellite pass over the distress beacon) and provide the identity of transmitting beacons (and other data encoded in 406 MHz beacons) almost immediately.
Enhancements to the original COSPAS-SARSAT LEOSAR system (like the GEOSAR system and the use of 406 MHz becons) continue to be provided by technology partners like EMS SATCOM. EMS SATCOM was involved in the original program development, the GEOSAR addition and the medium orbiting satellite (MEOSAR) system currently being tested. Learn more about EMS SATCOM SAR systems.
Distribution of Alert and Location Data
The alert and location data generated by ground stations (LUTs or local user terminals) are forwarded to appropriate SAR Points of Contact (SPOCs) through the Cospas-Sarsat mission command center (MCC) network. The MCCs validate, geographically sort and exchange alert data and system information, both within the COSPAS-SARSATsystem and with SAR networks. MCCs are established in most of the countries that have LUTs.
Commissioning of LUTs and MCCs
LUTs and MCCs to be used in the COSPAS-SARSAT system go through commissioning procedures and are reviewed by the Joint Committee to ensure they meet technical and operational standards. When all requirements for operation have been adequately demonstrated by the new component, the COSPAS-SARSAT Council approves its entry into the System.
EMS SATCOM has been involved in the design, testing and implementation of the COSPAS-SARSAT system since 1974. EMS SATCOM's world-class products provide the very best solutions to assist those in distress, and to protect those involved in rescue operations the majority of countries participating in COSPAS-SARSAT, including the original COSPAS-SARSAT founders, have chosen EMS SATCOM products as the foundation of their national SAR activities. Learn more about EMS SATCOM SAR systems.
Learn more about the history of COSPAS-SARSAT.
Components
Search & Rescue components include LEO and GEO Land User Terminals, Operations Control Consoles and SAR management systems.
Resources
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