In 2014, a spectacular fireball streaked across the skies of Papua New Guinea, captivating observers and scientists alike. Recently, the U.S. Space Command (USSC) released a memo revealing that this fireball was not just any meteorite but a fast-moving object from another star system.
Measuring a mere 1.5 feet across, this small meteorite entered Earth’s atmosphere on January 8, 2014, hurtling at speeds exceeding 130,000 mph. What sets it apart is its velocity, far surpassing typical meteors within our solar system. A 2019 study, although not peer-reviewed due to classified data constraints, suggested with 99% certainty that this meteorite originated from beyond our solar system, possibly from the deep interior of another planetary system or a star in the Milky Way’s thick disk.
The USSC’s recent confirmation solidifies these findings. Lt. Gen. John E. Shaw, in a memo dated March 1, acknowledged the 2019 analysis, affirming its accuracy in determining an interstellar trajectory. This makes the 2014 meteorite the first interstellar object detected in our solar system, predating the more famous ‘Oumuamua by three years.
‘Oumuamua, another interstellar visitor, is a cigar-shaped object speeding away from our solar system. In contrast, the 2014 meteorite, having ignited over the South Pacific Ocean, potentially left remnants on the seafloor. Despite the challenge of locating these interstellar fragments, Harvard University astrophysicist Amir Siraj is exploring the possibility of an expedition to recover them, driven by the excitement of obtaining the first piece of interstellar material.
The significance of these discoveries extends beyond astronomy, sparking interest in interstellar exploration and the mysteries of cosmic origins. As scientists continue to study and publish findings, the exploration of interstellar space and its impact on our understanding of the universe promises to be an ongoing adventure.