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Video: Perseid meteor explodes and leaves a vapor trail

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August 16, 2013

Michael Chung posted this video to Vimeo three days ago. It’s a meteor seen during the recent Perseid meteor shower, which “popped” or exploded and then left behind a vapor trail. I’ve seen meteors like this one with the eye, but never saw one captured on film. Way to go, Michael!

2013 Perseids Meteor Shower: Meteor Explosion from Michael Chung on Vimeo.

Astronomers tend to use bolide to describe a very bright fireball, particularly one that explodes.

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August 16, 2013

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Deborah Byrd

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About the Author:

Deborah Byrd (asteroid 3505 Byrd) helps edit EarthSky.org and is a frequent host of EarthSky videos. Deborah created the EarthSky radio series in 1991 and founded EarthSky.org in 1994. Prior to that, she had worked for the University of Texas McDonald Observatory since 1976, and created and produced their Star Date radio series. She has won a galaxy of awards from the broadcasting and science communities, including having an asteroid named in her honor in 1990, a Public Service Award from the National Science Board in 2003, and the Education Prize from the American Astronomical Society in 2020. A science communicator and educator since 1976, Byrd believes in science as a force for good in the world and a vital tool for the 21st century. "Being an EarthSky editor is like hosting a big global party for cool nature-lovers," she says.