Radar

Radar is used for precise navigation when near to land and to detect the presence and movement of vessels and objects for navigation and collision avoidance. A radar instrument sends out a radio pulse through a rotating antenna, called a scanner. When the pulse hits a target, it bounces back to the scanner. The instrument calculates the time difference between transmission and reception. It converts this information into a visual display on a monitor, which shows the object as a point of light. The monitor displays the bearing to the target and the distance to it. This information can be used to quickly produce accurate positions and fixes.