NASA’s Life-Saving Technology Where Cell Signals Can’t Go
Search and rescue technology developed in part by NASA saved five lives
On Memorial Day weekend 2024, a fishing team's day turned tragic when their boat sank about 40 miles off the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The five members struggled to pull on life jackets and grab cooler contents as they bobbed in the water. Easton Barrett, the only person with a mobile phone and no cell service, attempted to record a farewell message before activating a personal locator beacon (PLB) in hopes of rescue.
The PLB, a ResQLink device developed by ACR Electronics, sent a distress signal to satellites orbiting Earth, triggering a rescue operation through SARSAT technology. The satellite system, initiated in 1982 and expanded internationally in 1985, has since saved over 63,000 lives worldwide.
Once the emergency signal reached the nearest ground station, it directed rescue coordination centers to mobilize crews. In this case, a Florida Coast Guard boat arrived to rescue the team after four hours in the water. Barrett emphasized the importance of PLBs, stating that saving one life makes the effort worthwhile.
Written by urgent.news from NASA's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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