Meteors as a research area encompass the study of meteoroids entering planetary atmospheres, their ablation, light emission, plasma formation, and resulting ionization trails. This field integrates observational techniques (optical, radar, infrasound), modeling of atmospheric entry dynamics, and analysis of meteoroid composition and flux. Research addresses energy transfer to the atmosphere, fragmentation processes, and the contribution of meteoric input to upper-atmospheric chemistry and dust populations. It also includes characterization of meteor showers linked to parent bodies (comets, asteroids), constraints on small body populations in the Solar System, and assessment of impact hazards from larger bolides and airbursts.
The Geminids—among the few major meteor showers to come from asteroids—peak on Friday. It's one of the year's last chances to see fireballs in the sky.
Space Exploration
Dec 14, 2024
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The Geminids — among the few major meteor showers to come from asteroids — peak on Friday. It's one of the year's last chances to see fireballs in the sky.
Space Exploration
Dec 11, 2024
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In an international study led by Western University and Lowell Observatory, scientists describe a pioneering, integrative approach for studying near-Earth asteroids based largely on a November 2022 fireball event that dropped ...
Planetary Sciences
Nov 22, 2024
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With the Taurid meteor shower now hitting the night skies worldwide, look for what could be a celestial treat—you might see shooting stars, and maybe even fireballs, the biggest and brightest meteors.
Astronomy
Nov 18, 2024
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It's a treat to see a supermoon. But that bright glowing orb will still be almost full when the Leonid meteor shower peaks this weekend, likely obscuring all but the brightest meteors in most locations.
Space Exploration
Nov 14, 2024
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It's still one of the coolest things I ever saw. I was in the U.S. Air Force in the 90s, and November 1998 saw me deployed to the dark skies of Kuwait. That trip provided an unexpected treat, as the Leonid meteors hit dramatic ...
Astronomy
Nov 12, 2024
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Two sister meteor showers are already flashing across night skies—and will peak a week apart.
Space Exploration
Nov 3, 2024
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The sight of a fireball streaking across the sky brings wonder and excitement to children and adults alike. It's a reminder that Earth is part of a much larger and incredibly dynamic system.
Planetary Sciences
Oct 19, 2024
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The Orionids—one of two annual meteor showers from Halley's comet—peak early Monday. A bright waning moon may make them difficult to spot.
Space Exploration
Oct 17, 2024
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Less than a week after the northern lights dazzled observers across California, stargazers are in for another treat.
Space Exploration
Oct 16, 2024
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