The Acoustic Mirror

An acoustic mirror is a large, reflective surface designed to listen for distant sounds by bouncing sound waves toward a central receiver or microphone. Traditionally built as concrete or metal structures, they act like giant acoustic telescopes, focusing and amplifying faint sounds over long distances. Used historically in early radar technology and military detection, these mirrors helped detect approaching aircraft or ships by capturing sounds that would otherwise be too faint to hear unaided. They operate on the principle that sound waves can reflect and concentrate, much like light does with mirrors, enabling sensitive auditory surveillance.