Abstract: A low frequency detection system including the use of the sloping characteristics of the underwater near shore, the tapered section of ocean above the near shore, and an acoustic array. The acoustic array comprises a plurality of detectors that extend into the earth and are near the shore and tapered media. Low frequency sound energy in the range of from about 1 to about 100 Hz is coupled into the earth at discrete positions along the interface between the ocean and the sloping underwater shore. The maximum energy density for each frequency occurs at different ocean depths and the acoustic detectors are positioned to receive the optimum earth radiated beam at selected frequencies. The system involves locating tuned elements of an array in different arrangements and using a plurality of arrays and moving or stationary sound sources for active target detection and underwater earth mapping.