2. RADAR OBSERVATION
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2.4 RACON
A RACON is a radar beacon that emits radar receivable signals in the radar
frequency spectrum (X- or S-band). There are several signal formats; in general,
the RACON signal appears on the radar screen as a rectangular echo
originating at a point just beyond the position of the radar beacon. It has a Morse
coded pattern. Note that the position on the radar display is not accurate.
RACON
RACON
2.5
Radar Target Enhancer (RTE)
An RTE is a radar transponder is mounted on navigation buoys and masts of
small crafts to significantly improve their detection by radar. Unlike a SART or
RACON, which are passive, the RTE receives a radar signal, amplifies it and
re-transmits it, with the intention of making the target's signal look larger on a
radar display. The RTE is available in X-band and S-band types.