The low-velocity impact characteristics and residual compressive strength of Graphite/Epoxy $[O_2/45_2/-45_2/90_2]_s$ laminates are presented. Using drop weight impact system, four energy levels(0.97, 1.99, 3.48, 5.0J) were made and damage zone is detected by C-scan. The damage area detected by C-scan is compared with the 3-D linear finite element analysis using static Tsai-Wu failure criterion. The calculated failure contour at back surface(0$^\circ$) of laminate is overestimated and good correlation at next $45^\circ$ with the experimental result. Based on linear elastic fracture mechanics, the residual compressive strength of a laminate is calculated as a function of the damage area. From the results of experiments, the damage area is major factor for prediction the residual compressive strength.
