Sandia Labs’ Infrasound Technology Enhances Planetary Defense Against Space Debris
Albuquerque, NM — A groundbreaking study from Sandia National Laboratories reveals that existing infrasound technology, typically used for nuclear test monitoring, can be adapted for planetary defense against threats from space. The innovation aims to track debris, such as defunct satellites and components from past missions, which poses a growing risk to Earth as space activities increase.
Elizabeth Silber, a lead scientist at Sandia, explained to The Debrief how the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) infrasound sensors detect minute atmospheric disturbances from distant events. This technology, originally designed for seismic monitoring, could provide vital information about the entry paths of meteors and artificial objects reentering Earth’s atmosphere.
Silber’s curiosity sparked an examination of discrepancies between data from infrasound sensors and NASA’s Near Earth Object Studies database. She noted that the angle of an object’s entry significantly impacts how these systems track its trajectory, with shallow entries creating multiple sound signals, complicating localization.
To tackle this, Silber developed BIBEX-M, a customized model that utilizes infrasound data to calculate the probable paths of cosmic objects. The research highlights the potential for improved accuracy in predicting where and when such objects might land, which is crucial for preparing for potential impacts.
The study also emphasizes that while large debris can be tracked well in advance, smaller objects remain a challenge, though ongoing efforts aim to enhance detection capabilities. Moving forward, Silber suggests exploring additional monitoring technologies, such as high-altitude balloons equipped with infrasound sensors, which have shown promising results in recent monitoring campaigns.
Silber’s findings represent a significant advancement in planetary defense, offering a new tool to enhance global monitoring and preparedness against space debris, ultimately ensuring increased safety as human activity in space continues to expand.
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