A weighted estimating equation approach for inhomogeneous spatial point processes

We introduce a new estimation method for parametric intensity function models of inhomogeneous spatial point processes based on weighted estimating equations. The weights can incorporate information on both inhomogeneity and dependence of the process. Simulations show that significant efficiency gains can be achieved for non-Poisson processes, compared to the Poisson maximum likelihood estimator. An application to tropical forest data illustrates the use of the proposed method. Copyright 2010, Oxford University Press.