If a target is on a constant bearing and decreasing range, what action would you consider to create more separation?

If a target is on a constant bearing and decreasing range, what action would you consider to create more separation?

• A. Increase CPA by altering course to starboard or reducing speed to create more separation.
• B. Maintain course and speed.
• C. Decrease CPA by turning towards target.
• D. Increase speed toward the target.

Answer: (B)

When you see a target on a constant bearing and the range is shrinking, you’re on a collision course unless you change your own motion. The way to create more separation is to increase the closest point of approach (CPA) by altering your course or reducing your speed. Turning away from the target (for example, to starboard) or slowing down changes your path so the other vessel will pass farther away, increasing CPA. Sticking with the same course and speed would not improve the situation; the bearing would stay constant while the distance continues to close. Turning toward the target or speeding up toward it would bring you closer still, decreasing CPA and increasing risk. So the key action is to modify your own movement—alter course or reduce speed—to create more separation.

When you see a target on a constant bearing and the range is shrinking, you’re on a collision course unless you change your own motion. The way to create more separation is to increase the closest point of approach (CPA) by altering your course or reducing your speed. Turning away from the target (for example, to starboard) or slowing down changes your path so the other vessel will pass farther away, increasing CPA.

Sticking with the same course and speed would not improve the situation; the bearing would stay constant while the distance continues to close. Turning toward the target or speeding up toward it would bring you closer still, decreasing CPA and increasing risk.

So the key action is to modify your own movement—alter course or reduce speed—to create more separation.