1.6 GHz distress radio call system (DRCS) via geostationary satellite (Inmarsat-E) - Results of the preoperational demonstration
Abstract
The paper discusses features and operations of the spaceborne Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) system for distress alerting, which is expected to be used on every ship by August 1, 1993. Two types of EPIRBs that were developed to date are described: the floatable EPIRB, used by vessels over 300 GRT (convention ships subjected to the IMO rules) and the hand-held EPIRB used by smaller vessels such as fishing boats or yachts. The transmitted message formats of both are fully compatible. The distress alerts are presently transmitted through the polar orbiting satellite service at 406 MHz. However, the 36th Inmarsat Council in 1990 passed a decision to the effect that the Inmarsat geostationary satellite shall provide service at 1.6 GHz.
- Publication:
-
Dresden International Astronautical Federation Congress
- Pub Date:
- October 1990
- Bibcode:
- 1990dres.iafcZ....G
- Keywords:
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- Emergency Locator Transmitters;
- Radio Beacons;
- Radio Communication;
- Synchronous Satellites;
- Position (Location);
- Radio Frequencies;
- Satellite Communication;
- Communications and Radar