Fireball or Meteorite? Mysterious Light Streaks Across Japan Sky

Aug 20, 2025 | News On Japan

OSAKA - A glowing object was seen streaking across the sky in western Japan on Tuesday night, with multiple reports of a bright flash followed by a trail of light. Observers suggested it may have been a particularly bright meteor, known as a fireball, or possibly a meteorite.

Footage taken in Kagoshima City shortly after 11 p.m. showed the sky momentarily turning white before an orange light appeared to fall from above. Similar sightings were reported in Osaka and Kobe.

According to the Kagoshima Local Meteorological Observatory, sensors installed on Sakurajima recorded an air vibration, or sonic wave, at around 11:08 p.m., coinciding with the moment the light was observed. Multiple locations across Kagoshima Prefecture also confirmed the flash. Meteorological officials said it was likely a fireball or meteorite.

Toshihisa Maeda, director of the Sendai Space Museum in Satsumasendai City, said, "It was bright enough to make Sakurajima visible at night. I believe it was a fireball, which is among the brightest type of meteors."

Source: TBS

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