Large Green Fireball Meteor spotted from California

The American Meteor Society has recieved over 40 reports about a large fireball that was seen over the west coast of California on February 21st at 10:30 local time. Based on reports the fireball looks to have been traveling east-southeast to west-northwest towards the Pacific Ocean. Reports on brightness ranged from -14 to -20 , brighter than the full moon to almost as bright as the sun. Colors reported included, green, blue, orange and white. At least one witness reported a delayed sound.

Here’s a video of the meteor captured by Simon Crask

Click the map below to read the witness reports and use the interactive fireball map for this event.

After analyzing reports from select witnesses we can find a trajectory solution supported by 5 witnesses on the start point 4 on the end point. This is just an estimate based on witness reports which can be at times inaccurate. Finding commonality with 4 or more points however, increases confidence. With multiple reports of a sonic boom, this fireball probably left meteorites, but if it did, they are most likely at the bottom of the ocean.

If you witnessed this fireball, please file an official report with the AMS.

Mike Hankey

Mike Hankey is a software developer, entrepreneur, amateur astronomer, astrophotographer, meteor observer and meteorite hunter. Mike's enthusiasm for meteors led him to the American Meteor Society where he volunteered his time and the services of his software development company to redesign the AMS website and fireball reporting tool. In 2011 Mike was awarded the society's C.P. Olivier award for his work. In 2012 Mike was promoted to the role of Operations Manager. Mike and his company continue to maintain and enhance the AMS website and fireball reporting tools. You can see Mike's photography work and read more of his posts on his astronomy blog: MikesAstroPhotos.com. Mike can be contacted here.