Multitaper Array Processing

Thomson\´s multitaper approach generates estimates of the power spectrum by averaging individual "eigenspectra" obtained using a set of orthogonal window functions. The multitaper method is designed to work with very low sample support, typically a single snapshot of data, making it very attractive for the analysis of nonstationary or transient signals. This paper explores the use of the multitaper approach for spatial spectrum estimation in passive sonar. Several examples are given, and the problem of processing non-planewave signals is briefly discussed using an example motivated by a deep water propagation experiment.