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Marine radars are X band or S band radars on ships, used to detect other ships and land hazards, to provide bearing and distance for collision avoidance and navigation at sea.[1] They are electronic navigation instruments that use a rotating antenna to sweep a narrow beam of microwaves around the water surface surrounding the ship to the horizon, detecting targets by microwaves reflected from them, generating a picture of the ship's surroundings on a display screen. The X-Band and S-Band radar has different characteristics and detection capabilities compared with each other.[1] Most merchant ships carry at least one of each type to ensure adequate target detection and response.[1] For example, the S-band operates better in sea clutter and rain than the X-band, however, the X-band has greater definition and accuracy in clear weather.[1]
Radar is a vital navigation component for safety at sea and near the shore. It allows a 'lookout' to be maintained, being one of the approved available means for compliance with Rule 5, keeping a proper lookout under the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea.[2] Captains and the bridge teams of ships need to be able to maneuver their ships in close proximity to navigational hazards in the worst of conditions.[3] These include a need to navigate "blind", when there is poor or no visibility at night or due to bad weather such as fog.[3] In addition to vessel-based marine radars, in port or in harbour, shore-based vessel traffic service radar systems are used by harbormasters and coast guard to monitor and regulate ship movements in busy waters.