SONAR · Synchronized Optoacoustic Assessment of the Meteoroid Impact Risk

Project SONAR aims to significantly improve our understanding of the impact risk posed by centimetre-to-decimetre meteoroids to satellite infrastructure and space missions. Small-scale impacts remain poorly characterized due to limited observational data and insufficient methods to reliably estimate their energies. SONAR will bridge this knowledge gap by systematically integrating optical and acoustic observations using the uniquely overlapping MOROI optical and NIEP infrasound networks in Romania.The project has two core objectives: (1) to statistically analyse combined optical and acoustic detections of meteoroid impacts, creating comprehensive catalogues, and (2) to refine the methods used to accurately estimate meteoroid impact energies and risks. SONAR employs advanced machine learning techniques to automate acoustic detection, significantly increasing detection capabilities, and data processing efficiency towards building a statistically significant data set.Through strategic secondments, targeted training, and interdisciplinary collaborations, the project will deliver robust, open-access datasets and risk models. These outputs will directly inform satellite operators, space agencies, and policy makers involved in planetary defence and space situational awareness.