Skip to content Skip to footer

5.3 Radar Navigation and ARPA (Automatic Radar Plotting Aid)

  • Radar Navigation Introduction: Radar (Radio Detection and Ranging) is a navigation technology that uses radio waves to detect and track objects. This module will provide an overview of radar navigation principles and applications.
  • Radar Operation and Display: The module will cover the basic operation and display features of radar, including antenna rotation, echo interpretation, range scales, and radar symbols.
  • ARPA Overview: Automatic Radar Plotting Aid (ARPA) is a system that processes radar data and provides advanced features for target tracking, collision avoidance, and situational awareness. This module will explore the functions and capabilities of ARPA.
  • Target Tracking and Collision Avoidance: ARPA enables automatic tracking and plotting of targets detected by radar. The module will cover techniques for target acquisition, tracking, and collision avoidance using ARPA.
  • Radar Navigation Limitations and Best Practices: While radar is a valuable navigation tool, it has limitations that mariners should be aware of. This module will discuss radar limitations, including factors affecting radar performance, and best practices for effective radar navigation.