NASA says Cape Cod meteorite may be iron and was unusually dense
The Boston Globe • • science
Key Points:
- NASA's analysis suggests the meteor that entered Cape Cod Bay was unusually dense, likely composed of iron, with an estimated density of about 8,000 kilograms per cubic meter, though this remains experimental.
- The meteoroid broke apart at a high altitude of approximately 31 miles and entered the atmosphere at a steep angle, producing relatively few but larger fragments weighing hundreds of grams to several kilograms.
- The meteor was visible on radar for only about two minutes, much shorter than typical meteorite falls, and released energy equivalent to roughly 230 tons of TNT during its 26-mile atmospheric journey.
- Despite the theoretical possibility of recovering iron-rich meteorites from the ocean floor, NASA has no plans to attempt recovery due to the significant resources required and potential contamination affecting scientific value.
- No unusual wave activity was detected in Cape Cod Bay at the time of the event, and the meteor generated a sonic boom that was heard across New England shortly after 2 p.m. on Saturday.