Cospas-Sarsat System

An international satellite-based search and rescue system that detects and locates distress signals from emergency beacons to assist in maritime, aviation, and land-based rescues. 

The Cospas-Sarsat System is a global satellite network designed to provide accurate and timely distress alert and location data to assist search and rescue (SAR) operations. It operates using a combination of low-Earth orbit (LEO) and geostationary (GEO) satellites, as well as medium-Earth orbit (MEO) satellites, to detect signals from emergency position indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs) on vessels, personal locator beacons (PLBs), and emergency locator transmitters (ELTs) on aircraft. When a beacon is activated, the system relays the distress signal to ground stations, known as Local User Terminals (LUTs), which process the signal and determine the location of the distress call. This information is then forwarded to Mission Control Centres (MCCs) and Rescue Coordination Centres (RCCs) to initiate a response. The system is operated by an international consortium of governments and organisations, ensuring global coverage and reliability. It has played a crucial role in saving thousands of lives since its inception by providing rapid and accurate distress alerts to SAR authorities.