The first responder satellite system is being geared up to change frequencies as it celebrates its 6,000th rescue operation.
Currently the highly successful Search And Rescue Satellite Aided Tracking (SARSAT) System used to detect and locate mariners, aviators, and recreational enthusiasts in distress almost anywhere in the world uses the 121.5 and 243 MHz frequencies. But that will end February 1, 2009, when the system is set to monitor for trouble on the 406 MHz frequency.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, who along with the US Coast Guard, Air Force, and NASA operate SARSAT said the key reasons for the frequency change include the ability of the 406 MHz beacons to be detected instantly and provide for global coverage. The newer beacons are also more accurate and provide first responders with important registration information from the owner – features the older beacons do not offer, NOAA said.
Specifically, the decision to stop satellite processing of 121.5 / 243 MHz signals is due to problems in this frequency band which inundate search and rescue authorities with poor accuracy and numerous false alerts, adversely impacting the effectiveness of lifesaving services, NOAA states on its Web site. Although the 406 MHz beacons cost more, they provide search and rescue agencies with more reliable and complete information to do their job more efficiently and effectively.
NOAA’s operational polar-orbiting and geostationary satellites pick up distress signals from emergency locator beacons and relay them to search and rescue authorities across the globe. When a satellite pinpoints a distress location within the United States, or its surrounding waters, the information is relayed to the SARSAT Mission Control Center, located at NOAA’s Satellite Operations Facility in Suitland, Md. The distress signal information is then sent to a Rescue Coordination Center, operated either by the Air Force – for inland rescues, or the Coast Guard – for maritime rescues.
NOAA today noted that two people recued from a small plane crash near Concrete, Wash., made 6,000 folks on US land and water rescued by the SARSAT system in its 26 year history. Since 1982, SARSAT has been credited with supporting more than 25,000 rescues worldwide, NOAA said.
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