A recent fireball sighting across the southeast USA has led scientists to confirm that a space rock caused widespread celestial observations. Researchers at the University of Georgia have identified a 50-gram meteorite found in an Atlanta resident’s living room, which they believe originated from a breakup of a larger asteroid about 470 million years ago.
According to Scott Harris, a geology researcher, the homeowner discovered holes in their roof and a dent on the floor after the June 26 fireball. The impact was so powerful that it pulverized part of the material into dust fragments. The University of Georgia recovered 23 grams of the meteorite, which was analyzed using optical and electron microscopy.
Harris believes the meteorite belongs to a group of asteroids in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, making it older than Earth. The name “McDonough Meteorite” reflects the location where it landed, according to the Meteoritical Society’s convention.
While NASA estimates that 44,000 tonnes of meteor-matter reach Earth daily, only about 10 large meteorites are found annually. This recent discovery is rare but may signal a new era in space-rock spotting due to advancements in technology and public awareness.
Source: https://www.theregister.com/2025/08/13/mcdonough_meteorite