Meteors

Definition

Meteors should not be confused with meteorites. Debris that is too small or too light to survive friction with surrounding atmosphere will burn up very quickly, not reaching the planetary surface. Known as meteors, they are short-lived and will emit a flash of light as they burn. Terrestrial meteors are also known as shooting stars. Orbital debris will often suffer this demise.

The martian atmosphere is sufficient to protect an eventual settlement from small meteorites. Larger objects can make it through the atmosphere and there will need to be maintenance systems to account for meteorite impact in a surface settlement. Underground settlements would be protected from most likely impacts.