Abstract: A hypervelocity impact detection method and system for determining the precise impact location in a detection surface, of impacts such as ballistic missile intercepts, micrometeoroids and orbital debris (MMOD) or other shock events, utilizes a gridless detection surface capable of propagating radio frequency (RF) impact detection signals responsive to receiving hypervelocity impacts from objects, and multiple sensors on the detection surface that directly measure radio frequency RF emissions generated by the hypervelocity impacts on the surface, and a time of arrival (TOA) position measurement technique for determining the precise impact location in the detection surface.

Abstract: A method and system for detecting hypervelocity impacts on a detection surface utilizes multiple sensors that directly measure electrical pulse radio frequency (RF) emissions generated by hypervelocity impacts on a detection surface and time of arrival (TOA) position measurements for determining the precise impact location on the detection surface. The detection surface material is compressed differentially in such a way that the inherent equalization of the compressed electron density in one area of the impact is directed to the uncompressed area of the material causing an electrical current that flows until the redistribution of the electrical charge has been completed and the rapid redistribution of charge and inherent current that results emits the radio frequency pulse that is induced into the detection surface.