Spectrum-Time Estimation and Processing (STEP) for Data Quality Enhancement on the IQ2 Processor

The STEP processing framework integrates three novel algorithms addressing data quality at the lowest possible level: spectrum clutter identification, clutter filtering, and multi-lag moment estimation. Combined, these address two significant data quality contamination problems: noise and ground clutter. EEC has implemented this technique in real-time on its IQ2 signal processor. We examine here the data quality improvements gained over traditional signal processing, with a focus on effective sensitivity improvements for low signal regions.