A Maximum Likelihood Location Estimator for Non-Line of Sight Geolocation of Radio Emitters

We propose a novel Maximum Likelihood (ML) location estimator for use in dense urban environments that uniquely exploits the scattering environment geometry in order to mitigate the need for Line of Sight (LOS) paths. The estimator is derived and a method for calculating a numerical approximation is presented. A simple scattering model is used to assess the performance of the algorithm. Within a 400 m by 400 m search area a mean estimation error of 45 m is achieved, however, this is dependent on the assumed parameters of the simulated propagation environment.