Meteorite lights up Ostrobothnia sky

An exceptional bright light phenomenon was observed in many parts of Ostobothnia, western Finland, just after 5pm on Tuesday. According to the Ursa astronomical association, this was a meteorite which had passed through the Earth’s upper atmosphere before hitting the ground.

Observations of the light phenomenon were made across many parts of Ostrobothnia. Image: Ursan Taivaanvahti-havaintojärjestelmä

According to Esko Lyytinen of Ursa, the object definitely made it to the ground. He speculated it could be as heavy as dozens of kilograms. The object’s final explosion occurred probably between the towns of Kalajoki and Ylivieska.

Several observations of the object were made by Ursa at locations across Ostrobothnia. The subsonic blast was heard over a wide area.

Amateur astronomers are now eager to find the heavenly body which lies somewhere in the area of Ylivieska and Kalajoki.

Meteorites are a rare occurrence whereas meteors, objects that fail to reach the Earth’s surface, are more common. For example, during the course of the year, the Earth passes through dust clouds which give rise to a phenomenon known as a “meteor shower.” During such an event, streaks of light caused by small rocky particles are visible at regular intervals in the night sky.

David Mawby

Source: http://yle.fi