What is the main function of the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite system?

• A. Monitor 121.5 MHz for voice distress calls.
• B. Monitor 1635 MHz for coded distress calls.
• C. Monitor 406 MHz for distress calls from EPIRBs.
• D. Monitor 2197.5 kHz for hexadecimal coded DSC distress messages.

Answer: (C)

The system is designed to detect distress beacons that transmit on 406 MHz and relay the alert with location information to rescue authorities. When a beacon is activated, it sends a digital signal that identifies the beacon and, if equipped, its GPS coordinates. The COSPAS-SARSAT satellites receive that signal and route it to ground stations and rescue coordination centers, triggering search-and-rescue operations worldwide. Older or other-frequency reference points are not the primary monitoring function of this system, which is why 406 MHz is the correct focus for its distress alerts.