What Are These Meteors That Go Boom?
An astronomer explains the science behind meteors, describing how they create sonic booms and fireballs upon entering Earth's atmosphere. The piece clarifies the distinction between meteoroids and asteroids while noting that such events are common but often go unnoticed.
Why it matters
Understanding celestial phenomena helps demystify space events and provides insight into the solar system's composition and potential planetary threats.
A meteor streaks across the sky during the annual Perseid meteor shower in 2021, viewed from Spruce Knob, West Virginia. Photo: NASA/Bill Ingalls
The article is an educational piece based on scientific consensus.
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