SOS in Morse Code
Learn the meaning, history, and official signal for the international distress call.
What SOS Looks Like in Morse Code
The SOS signal consists of three parts that are sent together without pauses between letters:
- S = . . . (three dots)
- O = - - - (three dashes)
- S = . . . (three dots)
In many systems, SOS is written with a bar above the letters (SOS) to indicate that they should be sent as one continuous signal without the usual spaces between letters.
Why SOS Was Chosen
Contrary to popular belief, SOS does not officially stand for "Save Our Souls" or "Save Our Ship". It was chosen as the international distress signal for two simple reasons:
1. It is very easy to remember and signal, even under extreme stress.
2. The pattern is completely unique and hard to confuse with any other message, making it recognizable even through heavy radio interference.
Related Topics:
How to Signal SOS Without a Radio
Flashlight
Use a flashlight to send short and long bursts of light in the ... --- ... pattern.
Whistle
Three short blasts, three long blasts, and three short blasts on a whistle or horn.
Tapping
Tap on a metal pipe or hull in the ... --- ... sequence to be heard by rescuers.