Parameter estimation for the K-distribution based on [z log(z)]

A new method for estimating the order parameter of a K-distribution is presented which exploits the accuracy of log-based estimators while having a computationally efficient functional form which allows rapid calculation. The estimation accuracy of this new estimator is compared with previous estimators using an analysis technique based on asymptotic expansion of the estimator moments. The new estimator is found to have comparable accuracy to the normalised log estimator while having a much simpler implementation. SAR imaging is discussed as an example