The use of active microwave sensors in search and rescue operations

The possibility of utilizing low-orbit active microwave sensors in Search and Rescue (SAR) operations to detect and positionally locate scenes of distress is studied. The use of a scanning type system, i.e., rotating a highly directional antenna as opposed to more complex synthetic aperture type system is addressed. Targets for this system will be passive reflectors, not active transmitters like EPIRBs; reflectors which could be easily stowed, require little to no maintenance, could be quickly erected and can be more affordable than battery powered alternatives. Presented are parametric analyses to determine the required antenna gains and reflector areas for various frequencies and orbit altitudes. Also, major issues are raised as well as indicating areas requiring further study