although some analysts say it could have died several days ago or could last a few more days. you see in the center, this silver dot here, that is the center. once this is submerged in the water, that is the sensor for the ping tore send off a ping. and it pings once per second for 30 days if the battery life holds. we know as the battery starts to die, that ping, according to the manufacturer of the beacon will start to get weak and less frequent. so right now, this is the very crucial period, if it had 30 days that 30 days is up this afternoon. >> this afternoon. that is, again, if this pulse turns out to be anything, absolutely extraordinary. somebody who has been passionate about this is richard quest. he has followed this. he's done his research. he's on the phone with us right now. richard, what do you make of latest information that the chinese patrol ship has discovered a pulse signal in the southern indian ocean. >> well, i think first of all, you have to note the 37.5 hertz