Question 22D5

When a Search and Rescue Transponder (SART) detects radar pulses from a 3-cm (X-band) radar, it responds by transmitting a series of 12 equally spaced swept-frequency pulses. Your radar processes these responses, displaying them as a line of 12 equally spaced dots or concentric circles extending outwards from the SART's actual position along its bearing line. If your *own vessel’s* SART is activated, these 12 characteristic responses will appear centered on your own vessel's position on the radar screen. The pattern clearly indicates a SART operating at your location. Option A is incorrect because if a survival craft *within* 3 nm had its SART activated, the 12 circles would appear centered on *that survival craft's position* relative to your vessel, not on your screen's center. Option B is incorrect; the 12-circle pattern is a specific, internationally recognized SART signal, not a random fault display. Option D is incorrect because an EPIRB (Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon) transmits a distress signal via satellite and a homing beacon (typically 406 MHz for SAR aircraft), but it does not interact with a 3-cm radar to produce this specific visual display.