Garces is considered a forefront in the field of infrasonics, in which he has developed unique research potential. He participated in the analysis of the Space Shuttle Columbia accident, providing detailed information of the initial break-up of the spacecraft over California. Garces has also developed new techniques, based on his research of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, that may lead to distant detection of large tsunami waves that might hit Hawaiʻi. In addition, his approach to monitor and interpret the force of surf breaking on beaches will help to predict coastal hazards in Hawaiʻi.