Underwater ambient noise data analysis study on causes of variability

The objective of this study is to examine temporal and spectral variabilities of broad band ambient noise. Experimental results are compared with classical theory, and possible explanations of discrepancies are explored. Understanding the long and short term variability of ambient noise is critical when modeling the performance of acoustical sensors and designing signal processing techniques. Co-located shallow and deep sensors' response to shipping and ambient noise is analyzed from three different data sets taken in three different locations. The effects of surface traffic on high frequency noise variability are quantified, and the signal propagation path and loss are examined. Signals are localized and tracked based on their time of arrival at non co-located sensors and based on observed and radar tracks.