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(meteorobs) flaming meteor
Here is a clarification
regarding the comments on the grazer over the Tetons.
The summary in one of the astronomy magazines
states that if the had the object struck the earth, it would have released
energy in the kiloton range similar to small nuclear devices. In fact the thin
atmosphere deceleration forces were extremely small (a couple of meters per
second squared) with a probable velocity of 15 km/sec. And so this rare object
survived its encounter with the Earth and continues in an orbit around
the Sun. But, a more direct angle of entry would have meant that
the object would only have 5 or 10 seconds to decelerate before impact
(assuming it did not self-destruct in the atmosphere). The best estimate summary
for the object's mass and size were 4000 English tons and a diameter of about
13m (the length of a tractor trailer but 'spherical').
So, assuming a steep angle of entry (say > 70
deg.)... a strong composition meteor (stony)
how much smaller can we go and yet be concerned
with destruction as a result of radiant heat energy or destruction by the
showering of flaming debris? Any thoughts on this?
Tom
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