
fireball
A fireball is a very bright meteor that produces a powerful streak of light as it burns up in Earth's atmosphere. These luminous objects occur when a space rock, called a meteoroid, enters the atmosphere at high speed, causing intense friction and heating. Fireballs are typically brighter than ordinary meteors, often visible over a large area, and can sometimes produce loud sounds or even meteorite fragments that reach the Earth's surface. Their brilliance and size make them notable celestial events and a fascinating glimpse into the natural debris traveling through space.