In this study, the evolution of damage in an alumina-based oxide/oxide ceramic matrix composite is experimentally evaluated. A 12.7 mm tungsten-carbide hemispherical indentor is utilized in quasi-statically inducing damage in laminates held by corner clamps, with the back side unsupported. Multiple laminates are loaded in displacement control to “first load drop”, as well as to crosshead displacements corresponding to 30%, 50%, 75% and 100% of the respective laminate thicknesses. Upon reaching the target displacements the laminates are unloaded. The nature and extent of external and internal damage in the laminates is characterized and quantified using state-of-the-art techniques such as optical surface profilometry, X-ray Computed Tomography (CT), flash thermography and laser scanning microscopy. State of damage for the different depths of indentation closely correlates with critical transition points in the load-displacement plots, especially the first load drop, the peak load and the residual dent depth. Flash thermography results show a small region of sub-surface laminate damage at first load drop, while major cracks along the two principal fiber directions are observed for the 75% and 100% displacement cases. X-ray CT images also reveal a central, conical damage zone typical of such indentation events, with the delaminations extending beyond the cone region. The sequence of damage events identified through this study is anticipated to be useful in correctly incorporating damage mechanics in low energy impacts of ceramic matrix composites.