SAR (Search And Rescue) patterns ContentsSAR (Search and Rescue) patternsAttempting to search the water for an object can be challenging, due to the vastness of the ocean and the effects of tide. Additionally, the object you are searching for is not normally in its last known location. Sector search patternThe sector search pattern is made up of 9 legs, with the 3rd, 6th and 9th leg running past the datum. Track spacing will change depending on whether you are with or against the drift.Expanding square search patternThe Expanding Square search pattern is an outwards spiralling square pattern, and is particularly suited to very detailed and methodical searches.Creeping line / Parallel line search patternThe Creeping line search pattern and Parallel line search pattern both cover a rectangular area. A creeping line search pattern provides greater coverage of the area but takes time to cover the whole area. A parallel line search pattern can cover the same area more quickly whilst still providing reasonable coverage.Trackline search (return) patternThe Trackline search (return) pattern, also referred to as ‘Trackline Single-unit Return (TSR)’, is used when the only available information is the intended route of a vessel or aircraft. This type of search pattern is often used as an initial search effort due to speed that it can be planned and implemented.Trackline search (non-return) patternThe Trackline search (non–return) pattern, also referred to as ‘Trackline Single-unit Non return (TSN)’, is used when the only available information is the intended route of the vessel or aircraft. This type of search pattern is often used as an initial search effort due to speed that it can be planned and implemented.Polygon search patternThe Polygon search pattern can be used to try and locate a target as it is drifting in a strong current. The search pattern should be created perpendicular to the direction of drift and is used to search back and forth ‘down current’ of a search area. This search pattern can also be used in any search situation that requires the search to follow a specified route and end the search back at the commence search point (CSP).SAR pattern broadcast and receiptSAR patterns can be broadcast and received using STEDs messaging. SAR patterns can be either managed or un-managed.Un-managed searchesManaged searchesSearches listsSAR patterns are managed from the searches lists.Previous topic: Waypoints, Routes and TracksNext topic: Chart app — General