In this dissertation, satellite systems used for maritime search and rescue have been analysed. After closely defying what is International Maritime Organization, some international regulations that this organization enacted, which have been ratified by many nations, are analysed. Specifically international regulations regarding safety at sea have been analysed, primarily focusing on SOLAS convention regulations which prescribe obligations regarding systems and equipment for protection and rescue of mariners, and SAR convention which prescribes obligation for search and rescue at sea. Countries that have signed these international conventions are obliged to follow these regulations and to insure their implementation into the system. In correlation with previous work, satellite systems for search and rescue at sea that are currently in use have been analysed in a way that their goal was determined and their characteristics which are in accordance with international regulations explained. These analysed systems are GMDSS, Inmarsat satellite system and COSPAS-SARSAT program. Equipment which is in use as communicational equipment on vessels and search and rescue equipment like SART and EPIRB have been analysed as well. Without these systems and equipment it would be much harder to find out that a certain vessel is in danger and finding out their true location would be almost impossible so the role of these systems and equipment is crucial in protection and rescue of seafarers, vessels and their cargo. Certain dangers will always pose a threat to seafarers but with introduction of new international rules and regulations that prescribe the usage of safety equipment aswell as obligations for search and rescue missions, the loss of lives, vessels and goods that these dangers can cause, could be greatly diminished.