🔍 Key Concepts

• COSPAS-SARSAT coverage and how it detects 406 MHz EPIRB signals • Difference between geostationary satellites (like GOES and Inmarsat) and polar-orbiting satellites • Limitations of Inmarsat distress coverage (what latitudes it actually reaches)

💭 Think About

• Think about where Inmarsat satellites are positioned over the Earth and whether that really allows true pole-to-pole coverage • Recall how quickly a 406 MHz EPIRB alert from COSPAS-SARSAT is usually relayed—does it normally take that long? • Consider what kind of orbit a GOES weather satellite must use to appear fixed over one point on Earth

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify the actual geographic limits of Inmarsat coverage (especially near the poles) • Recall that geostationary orbit means same rotational period as Earth and requires a specific orbital plane over the equator • Remember that many modern 406 MHz EPIRBs can transmit both their unique ID and position—check how they get that position data