Damage assessment is a systematic methodological approach and research field focused on the identification, characterization, and quantification of physical, structural, or functional degradation in systems, materials, or environments. It investigates the nature, extent, severity, and potential consequences of damage resulting from various factors, including operational stresses, environmental exposure, aging, or specific detrimental events, serving as a critical basis for evaluating integrity, ensuring safety, informing maintenance, and assessing risks.