Meteorite STRIKE! Scientists confirm identity of metallic object that crashed through US home | Tech News

Meteorite STRIKE! Scientists confirm identity of metallic object that crashed through US home

Scientists have confirmed that the metallic object that crashed through the roof of a residence in the US was indeed a meteorite.

By: HT TECH
| Updated on: May 16 2023, 11:17 IST
What is a Meteorite? Know about these fallen “space rocks”
images of the metallic
1/5 Meteorites are generally meteors that have fallen on Earth. When a meteoroid enters a planet’s atmosphere, it Is termed as a Meteor. If the meteor falls on the surface of the planet without burning up completely, it is called a Meteorite, according to NASA. (AP)
images of the metallic
2/5 Therefore, it can be said that meteorites are broken up pieces of a meteor fallen on Earth or any planet’s surface. They can be found in various parts of the world where there have been previous meteor sightings. Meteorites typically range between the size of a pebble and a fist (Pixabay)
images of the metallic
3/5 Meteorites can resemble rocks on Earth, but they usually have a burned exterior that can appear shiny. This “fusion crust” forms as the meteorite’s outer surface melts while passing through the atmosphere, according to NASA. (NASA)
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4/5 Although most meteorites found on Earth originate from smaller asteroids, they can also potentially originate at nearby planets such as Mars or even the Moon. Scientists can tell where meteorites originate based on several lines of evidence. They can use photographic observations of meteorite falls to calculate orbits and project their paths back to the asteroid belt. (NASA/JPL)
images of the metallic
5/5 Meteorites that fall to Earth contain information about some of the original, diverse materials that formed planets billions of years ago, according to NASA. By studying meteorites scientists can learn about early conditions of the solar system as well as the processes which happened to reach where we are today. (Pixabay)
images of the metallic
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The Hopewell Township NJ Police shared images of the metallic, oblong-shaped object on Facebook. (AP)

A mysterious metallic object has caused a stir after crashing through the roof of a residence in the US. The Hopewell Township NJ Police shared images of the metallic, oblong-shaped object on Facebook, demonstrating it could be a meteorite. The incident took place on Old Washington Crossing Pennington Rd, with no reported injuries.

According to a press release from the police department, the object measured approximately 4" x 6" and had a metallic appearance. It penetrated through the roof, and ceiling, and impacted the hardwood floor before coming to a rest. The department is coordinating with various agencies to officially identify the object.

Metallic object revealed to a meteorite

Scientists from The College of New Jersey, aided by retired meteorite expert Jerry Delaney, conducted an examination of the object. Their assessment, based on visual examination, density measurements, and scanning electron microscope images, confirmed that the 6-by-4-inch, 2.2-pound object is a rare stony chondrite meteorite. This finding excited Nathan Magee, the chair of the physics department at the college, who expressed gratitude for the opportunity to study the meteorite alongside students and professors.

Fortunately, no one was harmed, and the property sustained minimal damage, according to the Hopewell Township police. Initially, the homeowners, the Kop family, believed that someone had thrown a rock into an upstairs bedroom. However, further investigation revealed the true nature of the object. As a precautionary measure, hazmat officials examined the home for any potential exposure to radioactive material, but no harmful substances were found.

The discovery of this meteorite has sparked fascination among the local community and beyond. Chatter about the extraterrestrial rock continues to circulate as people marvel at the rare occurrence. The incident serves as a reminder of the wonders of space and the intriguing possibilities that occasionally make their way to Earth.

In short, a suspected meteorite crashed through a residence in the US, prompting investigations by local authorities and scientists. The subsequent examination confirmed the object to be a stony chondrite meteorite. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, and the property incurred only minor damage. The incident has piqued interest among the public, highlighting the everlasting fascination with celestial events.

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First Published Date: 16 May, 11:15 IST
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