Bolide sighted in Massachusetts in 1957

Summary

In December 1957, an observer in Glouster, Massachusetts, saw a luminous object larger than a shooting star. The object had a long white tail that turned yellow before burning out. According to the report, the phenomenon lasted only 4 seconds and ended with the object breaking into two pieces. Although it might initially seem like a UFO, the data align with a bolide, a bright meteor that burns up upon entering the atmosphere. The description and lack of photographs point to an astronomical explanation.

The report classifies the event as an "astronomical meteor," which fits the observer's description. Despite no images being taken, the witness detailed the color, south-to-north trajectory, and disintegration of the object. This kind of event, though striking, is common in meteor observations. The report concludes there is insufficient data to consider other explanations, such as balloons or aircraft. In summary, it appears to be a well-documented natural phenomenon in astronomy.