A recent astrophotography image of Saturn has captured a bright flash of light on the planet’s limb, sparking an investigation into whether a space rock hit the gas giant. Amateur astronomer Mario Rana, from Hampton, Virginia, recorded the anomaly on July 5, 2025, while using his DeTeCt software to scan video footage. The discovery has left experts wondering if another observer may have captured similar evidence.
Saturn is not an isolated object in our solar system; it’s part of a vast field of asteroids, comets, and other debris from the solar system’s formation. Although rare, impacts on planets like Jupiter and moons are well-documented. Debris from space rocks can also enter Earth’s atmosphere, producing meteors.
The Planetary Virtual Observatory and Laboratory is now seeking more observations to confirm whether another bright flash occurred on Saturn at the same time as Mario Rana’s record. If you have footage or evidence of a similar event, follow their guidelines to contribute to the investigation.
Source: https://earthsky.org/space/did-space-rock-hit-saturn-photo