Spectacular and Rare: Meteor Lights Up Australia’s Night Sky | Watch

A meteor streaked across the skies over the state of Victoria, Australia last night, accompanied by a loud sonic boom that startled residents from their sleep. The fireball lit up the night in a brilliant bluish glow as it plummeted toward Earth — and it was all caught on video.

The dazzling display was most visible in the area between the cities of Ballarat and Bendigo, where thousands reported seeing the bright flash and hearing the sudden, thunderous boom.

Experts say that while meteors are not uncommon on Earth, this event was unusual because it occurred over a densely populated area, allowing many people to both see and hear the spectacle firsthand.

How Big Was It?

According to local scientists, the meteor that crashed in Australia was likely “the size of a basketball or perhaps as large as a small refrigerator.” Research is still underway to determine its exact dimensions and the precise location of its impact.

Although fragments may have reached the ground, experts say the chances of anyone finding them are slim. A research team from Monash University is working to narrow down a potential impact zone, and if identified, organized searches will be carried out.

Was It Dangerous?

While the sight and sound were dramatic, the risk to people was minimal. Most meteors break apart and disintegrate upon entering Earth’s atmosphere. The remaining fragments are small and slow enough to cause only minor damage — such as roof punctures or car dents. Injuries from meteor strikes are almost unheard of.

Watch the footage from Australia — and see the moment the sky lit up.