Satellite-Based Rescue 21 Augmentation

Abstract

Geographic isolation in Alaska diminishes the Rescue 21 system�s ability to locate VHF distress calls. This project evaluates a low Earth orbiting (LEO) satellite-based augmentation and prepares a prototype payload for launch. The system uses phase-locked loops (PLLs) to acquire Doppler curves and a Hough Transform algorithm to distinguish simultaneous broadcasts. This year's goals include mitigating errors from oscillator and timing offsets, developing a space-ready payload within size and power constraints, and simulating a full satellite constellation for the C5I Service Center to provide coverage versus cost estimations.