A Comprehensive Network for the Discovery and Characterization of Interstellar Objects

TL;DR

The paper proposes the Comprehensive ISO Network (CISON), a coordinated observational framework combining discovery, characterization, and interception to enhance interstellar object studies and planetary defense.

Contribution

It introduces CISON, an integrated network architecture that improves ISO detection, classification, and follow-up capabilities, transforming ISO astronomy into a scalable, predictive discipline.

Findings

CISON enables rapid ISO discovery and detailed follow-up.

The framework improves classification and risk assessment of ISOs.

It enhances planetary defense strategies against interstellar threats.

Abstract

Interstellar object (ISO) astronomy has rapidly emerged over the past decade as a new frontier in planetary astrophysics, yet current observations remain limited by short visibility windows, inference degeneracies and fragmented follow-up capabilities. We argue that these constraints are structural rather than incidental and motivate a coordinated, end-to-end observational strategy for future ISO studies. We propose the Comprehensive ISO Network (CISON) which combines dual hemisphere wide-field discovery with rapid high resolution characterization and selective escalation to interceptor missions. By coupling this architecture to the differential formulation of the Loeb Scale, ISO classification and risk assessment become predictive rather than reactive. This framework transforms ISO astronomy into a mature, scalable discipline capable of maximizing scientific return and informing planetary defense in the coming decades.