Abstract: An apparatus (10) for locating a subject is disclosed the apparatus includes an illumination/detection module (12) containing a source in this case a high-power laser (14) capable of radiating light at a wavelength in the infrared portion of the em spectrum. The optical output of the laser (14) is directed by beam-splitter (BS) (16) and lens (20) towards the rescue scene and a plurality of absorbers responsive to the said source disposed on the subject (22). The detection section of module (12) then collects signals radiated emitted by a plurality of emitters associated with the subject said emitters being associated with the absorbers.