Stunning Aquamarine Light Show Over Spain and Portugal Highlights Urgency for Better Space Object Detection
May 21, 2024A dazzling aquamarine light lit up the skies over Spain and Portugal on May 18, caused by a fragment of a comet.
The blue-green hue was due to the comet's magnesium-rich composition.
The comet disintegrated 37 miles above Earth, leaving little recoverable debris.
The incident highlights the need for improved detection and tracking of celestial objects for planetary defense.
The comet was undetected before its arrival, prompting experts to analyze 'precovery' data for more information.
This event is a reminder of the hazards posed by unforeseen space objects and the importance of vigilant monitoring to protect Earth.
Summary based on 9 sources
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Sources
The New York Times • May 20, 2024
Comet Fragment Explodes in Dark Skies Over Spain and PortugalYahoo News • May 20, 2024
Watch a meteor's incredible light show above Spain and PortugalCNN • May 20, 2024
Stunning comet lights up night sky in Spain and Portugal | CNNPopular Science • May 20, 2024
Watch a meteor's incredible light show above Spain and Portugal