# Functionality of the Search and Rescue Transponder (SART) in Maritime Search and Rescue Actions
## 5 Conclusions  
In summary of the research conducted, it should be noted that the experimental method applies to specific conditions. These conditions include environmental factors (weather), types of devices used, antenna heights of both devices, distance ranges, and radar settings. In general, the results of the experiment should be interpreted as follows:  
* With the radar antenna placed at a height of 6 m and the SART device at a height of 1.5 m, using the correct manual radar settings, the SART device was detected. * The auto settings did not reduce detection under the same conditions. * Weather conditions during the experiment were mild and did not require significant manual adjustment of the radar image due to interference from waves or rain. It is assumed that the automatic function also adjusted the tuning parameters in a similar way. * The use of a radar reflector did not affect the SART device's response signal. * The detected response signal is represented as a set of wider dots, which remain visible until the transition to concentric circles. * Acquiring an echo for tracking should be done as soon as possible. In close proximity to the SART device, it may not be possible to distinguish the echo from the background. * The experiment was conducted using a specific radar model and SART device, which may impact the results. The experiment conducted did not show any relationship between the automatic radar settings and the detectability of the SART device. However, such situations may still arise under different conditions, as presented in [8,22]. The problems identified regarding interference and the ability to track an object at short distances highlight the need to address these issues during seafarer training. Knowledge of the principles of search operations is therefore essential. This is especially important in fog when it is visually impossible to locate the survivor. Conducting search operations at sea is a challenging task. Detecting and locating an object is crucial for providing assistance. Survivors should utilize support equipment, as it offers numerous advantages. Non-rescue vessels can participate and are required to follow proper procedures. When using radar, it is advisable not to select automatic settings during search operations. During normal navigation, the radar should always be properly tuned to detect unexpected distress signals. Navigators should be aware of the technical limitations of the equipment and be thoroughly familiar with radar operations and search and rescue procedures. Persons in the water should hold the SART with the antenna pointing upwards (overhead if possible), while survivors in a lifeart or lifeboat should mount it as high as possible. The height of the antenna significantly impacts the detection range. The SART unit's response signal is activated by any of the ship's X-band radars within range. The device remains in stand-by mode for up to 96 h. The crew should therefore turn off their own radar operating in this band before evacuating the vessel and before switching on the SART device. Once the response signal is activated on the SART device, the battery will only allow the device to operate for 8 h. If there are no other vessels in the vicinity, survivors may not be detected. It is not recommended to place the SART device and the radar reflector on the same survival craft, as there is a risk of interference with the reception of the response signal. The results obtained have scientific applications for further analysis and testing of the SART device under different conditions. They provide a reference point and expand the database. The following subjects should be examined:  
* Severe weather conditions, such as rain and rough seas, require higher radar tuning; as recently reported, they could be a factor limiting the reception of the SART response signal. * Presence of the radar reflector. * Blanketing effects of the survival craft. * Influence of the ship's rolling. * Effect of wetting of the raft canopy material on signal strength loss.