Abstract: Method and apparatus are provided for locating a towed float relative to the towing vessel. The method determines the range from at least two known spaced apart locations on the towing vessel to the float and determines the position of the float from the intersection of the at least two ranges. The apparatus includes a microwave transceiver selectably interconnectable with a plurality of microwave antennas at known spaced apart locations on a towing vessel, a microwave transponder on each float whose locations is to be determined, and suitable controller and/or computer means to calculate ranges and intersections of ranges.

Abstract: Apparatus and method are provided for locating seismic sources suspended below a float, seismic streamer cables and other towed seismic apparatus relative to a towing vessel. The range and bearing from a selectively energizable acoustic source on or near the float, cable or apparatus to the towing vessel is measured by an acoustic phased array.