What is TRUE of the history display of a target's past positions on an ARPA?

A true statement about the history display of a target's past positions on an ARPA is that it provides a quick visual check to determine if a vessel has changed course. This feature is significant for navigation safety, as observing the track history allows the operator to assess the target's movement trends over time.

When a vessel's history is displayed, it often shows previous positions marked on the screen, which can easily highlight any alterations in course or speed patterns. This visual reference is crucial for determining how a target might behave in relation to your own vessel, especially in busy shipping lanes or areas where navigation must be carefully managed. Such an understanding can aid in decision-making and risk assessment, enhancing overall situational awareness.

This ability to see a target's past positions can also help identify persistent behaviors, such as a vessel consistently following a certain route or making abrupt changes, thereby improving the operator’s responsiveness to potential hazards.