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Which of these CAP search patterns is a point-based search?

Expanding square, which works outward from a point.

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  1. Creeping line
  2. Expanding square ✔
  3. Parallel track

Why: An expanding square starts at a likely spot, such as a reported position, and works outward in growing squares. Track line, parallel track and creeping line searches cover lines or areas.

Huh, didn't know that: Planners normally use an expanding square when the search area is small and survivors are thought to be close to a known spot.

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Why did Mickey Mouse go to outer space? To find Pluto.
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References

Answer: Expanding square. An expanding square starts at a likely spot, such as a reported position, and works outward in growing squares. Track line, parallel track and creeping line searches cover lines or areas.

  1. CAP Mission Observer/Mission Pilot Reference Text www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/CAP_MO__MP_Ref_Text_Rev_Dec_2017_18C3F2D723FEA.pdf
    Expanding Square search (a point-based search)
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. CAP Mission Observer/Mission Pilot Reference Text www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/CAP_MO__MP_Ref_Text_Rev_Dec_2017_18C3F2D723FEA.pdf
    Sector search (a point-based search)
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  3. CAP Mission Observer/Mission Pilot Reference Text www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/CAP_MO__MP_Ref_Text_Rev_Dec_2017_18C3F2D723FEA.pdf
    The planner normally uses the expanding square search pattern when the search area is small
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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