Distress beacon
A rescue beacon, also known as an emergency beacon or distress beacon, functioned as a homing beacon specifically crafted for usage during critical situations, enabling the user to call for help or pinpoint their location for rescuers. In times of crisis, Alliance operatives employed these devices to signal fellow members of the Alliance when they needed assistance. Before the Battle of Endor, Luke Skywalker insisted that Princess Leia Organa carry an emergency beacon while she was getting ready for a diplomatic trip to the planet Yinchorr. This action proved crucial when Organa faced an attack and was taken prisoner by Imperials under the command of Governor Marcellin Wessel. Thanks to the emergency beacon, the Millennium Falcon was able to successfully rescue Organa.