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The GEOSAR system has good coverage worldwide, except for polar regions
and can identify an activated EPIRB within a very short time. The system
cannot calculate the location of the EPIRB but can use the EPIRBs GNSS
receiver to provide a position.
The MEOSAR system provides very good coverage worldwide. The position
is calculated using the time delay between when the signal is sent from the
EPIRB to it is received by the satellites, and the distance between them.
For more information see:
https://www.cospas-sarsat.int/en/
7.10
AIS system
The EPIRB is capable of transmitting alert messages compatible with the
Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) found onboard all SOLAS vessels and
many other vessels. The transmission of these signals starts automatically
after activation of the EPIRB. A burst consisting of eight messages are
transmitted each minute with position velocity and course. These messages
are received and plotted on AIS systems. They are distinguished from other
vessels and are given special priority and alarm status.
Every 4 minutes a special text message containing the 15 HEX ID of the
EPIRB and the text “EPIRB ACTIVE” is transmitted. These messages will be
displayed immediately when received by an AIS installation.
