Guide To Space - Universe Today News: 7 Stage Journey Reveals How Falling Space Rocks Survive Air

Guide To Space - Universe Today News: 7 Stage Journey Reveals How Falling Space Rocks Survive Air

Author: 365DaysOfAstronomy.org September 10, 2026 Duration: 8:23

https://www.universetoday.com/articles/7-stage-journey-reveals-how-falling-space-rocks-survive-air

By Laurence Tognetti, MSc - August 31, 2026.

Recorded by our Editor, Richard Drumm.

At least once in our lives, we've all seen a bright streak of light briefly blaze across the sky and have quickly referred to it as an asteroid, meteor, shooting star, comet, or some other whimsical name we've heard others use to describe it. For those calling it a meteor, you would be correct, but we'll touch upon this later. The time it takes for a space rock, bolide being its scientific name, to travel through Earth's atmosphere and crash into the ground literally takes only a few seconds. But what happens to a space rock during this very brief travel time, and how can scientists use this to learn about a specific space rock's origin and the potential damage it could cause if it explodes in mid-air?

 

Phase 1: Atmospheric entry; 

Phase 2: Brightness begins; 

Phase 3: Brightness increases with fireball appearance; 

Phase 4: Brightness maintains while melting begins; 

Phase 5: Front of rock begins to break apart; 

Phase 6: Back of rock breaks apart; 

Phase 7: Melting and breaking apart continue until glowing stops, followed by melting ending and wind discards crusted pieces.

[Editor's Note: OK, that could be 8 stages if you'd prefer…]

 

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Imagine a daily conversation about the cosmos, where each sunrise brings a fresh perspective from a different corner of the globe. That’s the essence of The 365 Days of Astronomy. Born from the spirit of the 2009 International Year of Astronomy, this enduring project has evolved into a genuine community effort, releasing a new episode every single day. You won’t hear the same host each time; instead, the microphone passes to astronomers, educators, enthusiasts, and scientists, each sharing their unique passion and expertise. This structure means the tone and topic can shift wonderfully from one day to the next-you might delve into the mechanics of a black hole on Tuesday and then explore ancient celestial myths on Wednesday. The consistent thread is a shared wonder for the universe, presented in accessible, bite-sized pieces. Managed by Avivah Yamani and edited by Richard Drumm, this daily podcast is a production of the Planetary Science Institute, sustained by listener support. It’s a calendar of the cosmos, offering a daily moment of reflection and discovery that proves you don’t need a telescope to have your perspective shifted. Tuning in regularly builds a habit of cosmic curiosity, connecting the vastness of space to the rhythm of our own days.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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