Meteor explosion and fragments in Saudi Arabia 1961

Summary

In February 1961, an explosion in the sky over Saudi Arabia produced a sound similar to a sonic boom, followed by a dense white cloud of smoke that lasted for 10 minutes. Witnesses reported the cloud had a zigzag tail indicating a north-to-south trajectory. About 12 minutes after the explosion, fragments fell to the ground and five were recovered, including one metallic and four charcoal-like pieces. Initial analysis showed the metallic fragment contained silver, was highly magnetic, and had slight radioactivity. Harvard University expressed interest in studying the fallen meteorite, prompting coordination with the local airfield. The event description, along with photographs and physical samples, was sent to U.S. military facilities for further analysis.