RYA SRC EPIRB, SART & Emergency Equipment 4

Question 1

At what altitude must a satellite EPIRB signal be detectable by COSPAS-SARSAT satellites?

Accepted Answer

The signal is detectable from sea level by low-earth orbit satellites

Answer

COSPAS-SARSAT low-earth orbit (LEOSAR) satellites can detect a 406 MHz EPIRB signal from sea level, requiring no minimum altitude.

Question 2

Which organisation maintains the international database of registered 406 MHz EPIRBs?

Accepted Answer

COSPAS-SARSAT

Answer

COSPAS-SARSAT maintains the beacon registration database that links a 406 MHz EPIRB's unique identity to the vessel and owner details.

Question 3

A SART response signal appears on a radar screen as:

Accepted Answer

A series of 12 dots or blips extending away from the SART's position

Answer

When triggered by a 9 GHz radar pulse, a SART responds with a swept frequency that paints 12 blips extending radially outward on the interrogating radar.

Question 4

What is the purpose of the 'homing' mode on a Search and Rescue Transponder (SART)?

Accepted Answer

To allow a rescuing vessel's radar to home in on the survivor's position

Answer

In homing mode the SART responds to every radar pulse from an approaching vessel, enabling the rescuer to steer directly toward the source of the blips.

Question 5

Under SOLAS regulations, where should a float-free EPIRB be mounted on a vessel?

Accepted Answer

In a bracket on the outside of the vessel at a height where it can float free

Answer

A float-free EPIRB must be mounted in a dedicated hydrostatic release bracket on the exterior of the vessel so it can deploy automatically when submerged.

RYA SRC Practice Test

RYA SRC Practice Test

RYA SRC EPIRB, SART & Emergency Equipment 4