On July 25, 2024, an extraordinary event occurred in Marshfield, Prince Edward Island, Canada. A home surveillance camera recorded, for the first time, the sound and impact of a meteorite hitting the ground. This unprecedented capture provides a unique perspective on a phenomenon rarely observed with such precision.
A Rare and Valuable Capture
On that day, Joe Velaidum and Laura Kelly, the homeowners with the equipped camera, discovered unusual debris in their driveway. Curious, they reviewed the footage from their door camera and were astonished to see a meteorite strike their driveway, accompanied by a sound similar to a gunshot. According to Professor Chris Herd from the University of Alberta, “This is the first time we’ve captured both the sound and image of a meteorite striking a man-made surface or object.”
Analysis of the Meteorite
Fragments totaling 95 grams were collected from the impact site. Analysis revealed it to be an ordinary chondrite, a common category of meteorites. Named the “Charlottetown Meteorite,” it likely originated from the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. While the exact speed of the impact couldn’t be determined from the footage, it’s estimated to have hit at about 200 km/h, significantly slower than its atmospheric entry speed, which reaches tens of kilometers per second.
Implications for Scientific Research
This unique recording serves as a valuable resource for scientists. It enables a detailed study of the impact processes of meteorites on artificial surfaces and enhances our understanding of interactions between these celestial objects and our planet. Furthermore, the combination of visual and auditory data offers an unprecedented opportunity to analyze the physical characteristics of meteorites upon their arrival on Earth.
This event highlights the importance of home surveillance systems in capturing rare natural phenomena. It also serves as a reminder that our planet is continuously exposed to extraterrestrial materials, offering researchers unique opportunities to deepen their knowledge of the universe around us.
What do you think of this world first? Have you ever witnessed similar celestial phenomena? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below.
