This paper considers methods for estimating the mutual time delay of broadband signals recorded by satellites based multi-position systems for determining the location of a radiation source. All methods considered are based on modified algorithms for calculating the ambiguity function. The presented algorithms are based on the extraction of narrowband channels from the studied signals and their further optimal processing. The reliability criterion for mutual time delay estimation by the presented methods was evaluated. Based on the results and analysis of computational efficiency, viability of methods considered and their modifications was determined.