Passive location accuracy via a general covariance error model

The authors present a least-squares covariance analysis approach for determining geolocation accuracy using long-baseline interferometry (LBI) measurements from airborne platforms. The equations derived determine the accuracy of the emitter location by extraction of the position error ellipse from the covariance matrix. The model is applicable, however, to both ground-fixed and moving emitters. Emitter position and velocity vector accuracy are evaluated using three aircraft configurations. The sources of error modeled include random and bias measurement error. The results confirm that the covariance approach enables quantitative assessment of the key factors in the engineering synthesis of requirements for aircraft deployment, signal measurement, and geolocation accuracy.<>