Reducing uncertainties in bolide and space debris detection: The role of entry geometry in infrasound analysis

Infrasound measurements play a critical role in global bolide detection and accurate location determination. However, significant mismatches frequently emerge between observed back azimuth angles and theoretical predictions derived from a bolide’s brightest emission point, especially under shallow entry conditions. In such instances, elongated acoustic traces across multiple trajectory segments induce large variations in back azimuth residuals. An investigation to quantifies the effects of varying entry angles on azimuth deviations over distances up to 15,000 km was carried out. The results show that shallow-angle entries can produce substantial discrepancies, complicating reliable geolocation at extended ranges. Conversely, steeper trajectories yield more consistent azimuth measurements, minimizing uncertainties. These findings demonstrate the necessity of incorporating entry geometry in infrasound analyses to refine bolide detection and bolster planetary defense. Additionally, this framework offers important considerations for other high-energy atmospheric phenomena, such as spacecraft re-entries, where accurate geolocation remains paramount.

SNL is managed and operated by NTESS under DOE NNSA contract DE-NA0003525.