Fractional fourier transform-based spectrum analyzer

Fractional Fourier Transform (FrFT)-based spectrum analyzers and spectrum analysis techniques are disclosed. Rather than using the standard Fast Fourier Transform (FFT), the FrFT may be used to view the signal content contained in a particular bandwidth. Usage of the FrFT in place of the frequency or time domain allows viewing of the signal in different dimensions, where “spectral” features of interest, or signal content, may appear where they were not visible in these domains before. This may allow signals to be identified and viewed in any domain within the continuous time-frequency plane, and may significantly enhance the ability to detect and extract signals that were previously hidden under interference and/or noise, provide or enhance the ability to extract signals from a congested environment, and enable operation in a signal-dense environment.