Residents of Airdrie and surrounding areas were treated to a spectacular celestial event early Wednesday morning, November 13, 2024, as many reported witnessing a stunning greenish-blue fireball streaking across the sky. The sighting occurred at approximately 6:34 a.m., captivating early risers and stargazers alike.

Social media platforms were abuzz with excitement as locals shared video clips and images of the phenomenon. Witnesses from various locations, including Calgary, Edmonton, and even British Columbia, reported seeing the brilliant light, which many speculated to be a meteor.

One Twitter user, sharing a video of the event, exclaimed, “Meteor spotted from Edmonton and Calgary over Alberta early this morning ” while another account shared footage captured by a camera at Sunshine Village, showcasing the meteor’s impressive display.

But what exactly did residents see in the sky? Was it a shooting star, a meteor, or something else entirely? According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), meteors, often referred to as shooting stars, occur when meteoroids enter a planet’s atmosphere at high speeds, burning up and creating a streak of light. The brighter ones are classified as “fireballs.” Interestingly, it is estimated that around 48.5 tons of meteoritic material falls to Earth every day.

Meteor showers, which are periods of increased meteor activity, occur when Earth passes through debris left by comets. These showers are usually named after the constellation from which they appear to radiate. Currently, several meteor showers are active, providing more opportunities for stargazers to catch a glimpse of these celestial wonders.

Upcoming Meteor Showers

• Orionids (Active until Nov 22, 2024)
  Peak: Oct 20-21, 2024 (83 percent full moon)
  Details: 10-20 meteors/hour, with peak activity in some years reaching 50-75 meteors/hour.
• Southern Taurids (Active until Dec 8, 2024)
  Peak: Nov 4-5, 2024 (11 percent full moon)
  Details: A long-lasting shower with an average of five meteors/hour.

As the night sky continues to dazzle with its wonders, residents are encouraged to keep their eyes peeled for future meteor sightings. With several meteor showers on the horizon, the opportunity to witness these breathtaking displays of nature is just around the corner.

For those eager to enhance their stargazing experience, consider finding a dark area away from city lights, lying back, and simply watching the sky. With the right conditions, you might just catch a glimpse of the next meteor shower or even a fireball like the one that lit up the skies earlier this week.