One of the most important goals for an RCC (Rescue Coordination Center) is to have a perfect understanding of how a system that provides distress alerts like the COSPAS-SARSAT system works. It is also important for the COSPAS-SARSAT organization to know the requirements of an RCC in order to improve the systems.
In order to achieve this goal, a delegation of the Münster RCC (Germany) came to the French Mission Control Center (FMCC) on Wednesday 3 September 2014.
The whole day was dedicated to explaining in detail, step by step, how the COSPAS-SARSAT system works:
- – How the different types of beacon (ELT, PLB, EPIRB) can be triggered;
- – How the signal is heard by the different constellations of satellites;
- – How a LUT reception station (associated with appropriate antenna) is able to receive the signal;
- – How precisely an MCC works (the core of the Center) and how it is managed by the operators;
- – How the distress alert is forwarded and to whom.
It was also a unique occasion to speak about the future MEOSAR system and for the FMCC to better understand the need for this RCC.
This visit was considered very fruitful, helpful and very constructive by both groups.
The visit was concluded with the offering of a gift from the head of the Münster RCC to the head of FMCC.
