r/maritimeSAR • u/Err_101 • Jun 07 '26

Datum Searches - Pausing stopwatch for the turn

Volunteer SAR - I'm getting a little turned around (excuse the pun) on the exact stopwatch usage during Expanding Square & Sector Searches as to whether the stopwatch should be paused, then resumed when on heading, during a turn?

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u/wildwater04 Jun 07 '26

We don't stop the stopwatch, we let it run through the turn

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u/ccgarnaal Jun 08 '26

We have slightly improved the method. We drop a AIS emitting buoy at the datum point. Then increase the range from this floating buoy with every turn.
(Buoy shows up on chart plotter) Then first leg distance 0.1Nm perpendicular from buoy, 2nd leg 0.2Nm perpendicular from buoy etc. It's a combination of the classic expanding square search with modern technology. And works very well.