Historical Events tagged with "meteorite"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Space Exploration

NASA's Claims of Life on Mars Meteorite

August 6th, 1996 28 years ago

NASA scientists, led by David S. McKay, announced the discovery of possible evidence of ancient life in the meteorite ALH 84001, which was found in Antarctica. This announcement ignited widespread interest and debate among scientists, the media, and the public regarding the implications of extraterrestrial life. The research, published in the journal Science, highlighted unusual structures within the meteorite that resembled fossilized microbes and chemical signs suggestive of biological activity. The discovery positioned the ALH 84001 meteorite as potentially the most significant find in the search for life beyond Earth.

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Science & Technology

Meteorite Crash Lands in Peekskill

October 9th, 1992 32 years ago

A 27.7-pound meteorite crashed into a parked car in Peekskill, New York, causing damage and sparking significant interest from both local residents and meteorite enthusiasts. The meteorite was observed flaring through the night sky before it struck the vehicle, drawing attention for its unusual nature. This event marked a rare occurrence as meteorites hitting cars are notably uncommon, making the Peekskill meteorite an exciting specimen for study.

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Science & Technology

Hodges Meteorite strikes woman during nap

November 30th, 1954 70 years ago

A meteorite weighing approximately 4 kilograms crashed through the roof of a home in Sylacauga, Alabama, striking Ann Hodges as she took an afternoon nap on her couch. The meteorite not only created a significant impact in her living room but also made a mark in history as the only recorded instance in the Western Hemisphere of a person being hit by a rock from space. The incident attracted considerable attention from both scientific communities and the media.

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Exploration & Discovery

Iron Meteorite Creates Sikhote-Alin Crater

February 12th, 1947 78 years ago

A significant meteorite impact occurred in the Sikhote-Alin mountain range of the Soviet Union, where one of the largest iron meteorites was found. It blasted into the earth, creating a large crater and ejecting numerous fragments. The impact event, characterized by its scale and ferocity, was witnessed by local residents and subsequently studied by scientists. This extraordinary occurrence highlighted the natural phenomena involved with meteorite impacts.

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Science & Technology

Meteorite Fragments Land Near Chicora, Pennsylvania

June 24th, 1938 86 years ago

In June 1938, fragments of a massive meteorite landed in a rural area near Chicora, Pennsylvania. The meteorite, estimated to have weighed around 450 metric tons upon entering the Earth's atmosphere, exploded in a spectacular display. Witnesses described a loud boom and bright flashes of light as the meteorite broke apart mid-air, raining down on the surrounding area. Local residents felt the impact, which left craters in the ground and scattered remnants. The event drew attention from scientists and meteorite enthusiasts who sought to study the remnants of this cosmic phenomenon.

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Space Exploration

Nakhla Meteorite Lands in Egypt

June 28th, 1911 113 years ago

The Nakhla meteorite fell in Egypt, showcasing possible signs of water origin on Mars. Found near Nakhla, it was a significant discovery as it indicated that Mars may have once had conditions suitable for water. The meteorite weighed approximately 10 kilograms and was later analyzed, revealing interesting geological features. This find sparked excitement among scientists and astronomers regarding the possibility of extraterrestrial life.

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Science & Technology

Meteorite Strikes Near Grossliebenthal, Ukraine

November 19th, 1881 143 years ago

A meteorite weighing around 80 kg fell near the village of Grossliebenthal, located southwest of Odesa, Ukraine. Witnesses reported a loud explosion followed by a shower of stones. The meteorite's impact was notable for its size and the curiosity it sparked among locals and scientists alike.

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Science & Technology

Ensisheim Meteorite Strikes Alsace Wheat Field

November 7th, 1492 532 years ago

A large meteorite, known as the Ensisheim meteorite, impacted a wheat field near the village of Ensisheim in Alsace, France. This event is significant as it is recorded as the oldest meteorite with a known date of impact, landing on November 7, 1492. The meteorite weighed about 1275 grams and was notable for its iron composition and unique features, including a fusion crust. Local villagers were astonished by the sight, and the impact was marked by a loud explosion that could be heard for miles.

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