What happens when a SART is picked up on another vessel's radar?

When a Search and Rescue Transponder (SART) is activated, it sends back a distinctive series of radar responses when it detects an approaching radar signal from a surface vessel. This means that when a SART is picked up on another vessel's radar, it provides position information to that responding vessel by indicating its location on the radar display. The transponder emits a pulse of signals that helps rescuers to pinpoint its position, which is crucial in search and rescue operations, particularly during emergencies at sea.

The SART does not initiate an emergency alert to authorities like the Coast Guard, nor does it steer the vessel to safety or signal for medical assistance; its primary function is to assist in being located by other vessels in proximity through radar detection.