SOS | GPS Navigation Systems

DSC Distress Alert: Who Hears It and What Happens Next

November 9, 2026 by Andrejs

Close-up of a marine VHF radio mounted at a chart table, its hinged red distress cover flipped open and a thumb resting on the red button, the small screen glowing amber with a countdown,

Pressing the red button on a DSC marine VHF sends a short digital message, not a voice call.

Lifejacket PLB vs Satellite Messenger: Who Answers Your SOS

November 5, 2026 by Andrejs

A sailor in a yellow inflated lifejacket floating in dark, choppy night water, one gloved hand holding a small PLB with its antenna pointing straight up toward a sky of scattered s

Pressing the SOS button on a personal locator beacon (PLB) and pressing it on a satellite messenger both send a distress signal with your position.