Eigen-decomposition techniques for Loran-C skywave estimation

Eigen-decomposition spectral analysis techniques are used to estimate the delays of Loran-C skywaves. Their performance is evaluated and compared with that of Fourier-based techniques. Results using off-air data are presented. This work establishes the basis on which to design a Loran-C receiver capable of adjusting its sampling point adaptively to the optimal value in a constantly changing skywave environment. Such receivers promise to improve significantly the accuracy and reliability of positioning under adverse operational conditions.