The primary objective of this project is to demonstrate and validate a best-practice method for measuring muzzle blast noise from large weapons. The method will 1) minimize the effects of non-linearity, ground interaction, and ballistic shock; 2) adjust to accommodate a range of weapon sizes; 3) include data reporting requirements for compatibility with Department of Defense (DoD) noise assessment software; and 4) be documented as a military, national, or international standard. Future experiments will be conducted on a range of weapon sizes to fine-tune and validate chosen methodologies. 

Using physics-based modeling, the team will optimize sensor placement configurations for various weapons systems (mortars, small artillery, large artillery, and a suspended point-source explosive), with preference for systems currently represented by surrogates in BNoise software. The approach minimizes required measurement locations while accounting for weapon caliber scaling relationships. Future field measurements at Aberdeen Proving Ground will seek to validate the methodology, with additional measurement points establishing uncertainty quantification. Subsequent analysis will verify optimization of sensor placement and standoff distances. The standardized method will undergo validation through additional field testing before being formalized through multiple channels: peer-reviewed publication, Defense Technical Information Center archiving, Defense Noise Working Group adoption, military standardization, and ultimately integration into weapons acquisition regulations. 

This project will provide best-practice methods for measuring muzzle blast noise from large weapons, addressing key factors such as non-linearity, ground interaction, and ballistic shock. These methods will be adaptable to various weapon sizes and include data reporting requirements to ensure compatibility with DoD noise assessment software. By establishing standardized measurement practices, this project will fill a critical gap in the science of weapon noise and its effects on both human and wildlife populations. The results will support more accurate noise assessments for range and environmental planning, leading to improved noise management strategies for future military activities. (Anticipated Project Completion - 2026)