Three-dimensional passive localization of near-surface targets using a deep-sea bottom mounted horizontal array

Area of Science:

• Ocean acoustics
• Geophysics
• Signal processing

Background:

• Passive localization of underwater targets is crucial for marine research and defense.
• Traditional methods often require active sonar or separable multipath arrivals, limiting their applicability.
• Deep-sea environments present unique challenges for acoustic signal propagation and analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a three-dimensional passive localization method for near-surface targets.
• To utilize a deep-sea bottom horizontal array for enhanced acoustic data acquisition.
• To achieve accurate target localization without relying on separable multipath arrivals.

Main Methods:

• Constraining target range and azimuth using direction of arrival data.
• Computing replica acoustic fields for source candidate validation.
• Applying weighted subspace matched-field processing for range and depth estimation.
• Determining final azimuth based on estimated target range.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated accurate three-dimensional localization of near-surface targets.
• Validated the method's effectiveness using both simulated and experimental data.
• Showcased successful localization without the need for simultaneous observation of separable multipath arrivals.

Conclusions:

• The proposed passive localization method is effective for near-surface targets in deep-sea environments.
• The technique offers a robust solution for underwater acoustic target tracking.
• This advancement has significant implications for marine surveillance and exploration.