A model for estimating point sources in spatial data

We introduce a point source model which may be useful for estimating point sources in spatial data. It may also be useful for modelling general spatial data, and providing a simple explanatory model for some data, whilst in other cases it may give a parsimonious representation. The model assumes that there are point sources (or sinks), usually at unknown positions, and that the mean value at a site depends on the distance from these sources. We discuss the general form of the model, and some methods for estimating the sources and the regression parameters. We demonstrate the methodology using a simulation study, and apply the model to two real data sets. Some possibilities for further research are outlined.