Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) has created and tested a micrometeoroid and orbital debris (MMOD) detection system to help satellites and spacecraft identify and characterize debris impacts. The technology ensures operators are aware of collisions even when damage is not immediately visible.

Earth's orbital environment is increasingly congested due to exploding satellites, anti-satellite tests, and accidents, leaving debris that can orbit for years and endanger active missions.

The SwRI system integrates into spacecraft structures, embedding sensors within panels to capture impact data. Software then analyzes these signals to estimate impact details, offering insight into particle size and density. The system can also notify spacecraft operators when their vehicle sustains a strike.

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