Bright daylight fireball explodes over Israel, sonic boom reported

A bright daylight fireball was seen flashing across the sky over Israel around 14:16 UTC on April 16, 2023.

The Israeli Astronomical Association (IAA) has received several reports of a bolide, an especially bright meteor, observed during daylight in the country’s sky. The bolide was seen flashing across the sky in the direction of the northeast around 17:16 local time and is very possible that it was seen from other areas of the country.

In an update posted on the IAA’s Facebook profile on April 16, 2023, it was reported that reports continued to come in from the center and north of the country. Some reports also mentioned hearing an explosion after the bolide was observed. According to the IAA, an explosion may be heard if the bolide was caused by a relatively large stone, according to its composition.

The IAA is closely monitoring the situation and continues to gather data on the origin of the bolide and its composition. They have also encouraged the public to report any sightings or information that may assist them in their research.

Ofer Gebazo’s photo of the bolide was also posted on the IAA’s Facebook profile:

While the observation of meteors is a relatively common occurrence, seeing a bolide during daylight hours from an inhabited place is quite rare.

References:

¹ Meteor explodes over Israel in daylight – IANS – April 16, 2023

² Israeli Astronomical Association (IAA) – April 16, 2023

Featured image credit: Ofer Gebazo, IAA