A meteorite that caused a massive boom over Cape Cod on Saturday afternoon has been dubbed a 'fishy squisher' by NASA, as the space agency believes it landed in the middle of Cape Cod Bay. The energy released by the space rock was estimated to be equivalent to 300 tons of TNT, according to NASA.
The Event and Its Impact
The meteorite fragmented approximately 40 miles above New England, generating widespread reports from Delaware to Montreal. Residents described hearing loud booms, feeling their homes shake, and even witnessing a fireball streaking across the sky. Many compared the sensation to doors slamming or a heavy impact nearby, highlighting the significant shockwave produced by the event.
Potential Recovery
NASA confirmed that the object is a natural meteorite, not space debris, and it may be recoverable. The space rock likely fell into about 100 feet of water in Cape Cod Bay and is believed to possess magnetic properties, which could aid in its retrieval by space rock hunters. The agency has nicknamed the event a 'fishy squisher' due to its presumed splashdown location.
The meteorite's entry and fragmentation created a dramatic display, with the boom heard across a wide area. Scientists are now assessing the possibility of locating fragments on the bay floor, though the depth and magnetic nature of the object present both challenges and opportunities for recovery.
