Meteor strikes have been a perpetual danger for modern human society. The most modern detection systems for such meteor strikes are in the form of nuclear test detection systems. During and after the Cold War, stations were set up around the world to listen for signs of massive explosions. Through detection at, at least, three stations, one can determine the location and magnitude of an explosion. Little nuclear testing has happened in the past decades, however, so these stations have mostly been detecting meteorites. Unfortunately, these detection methods mean that the explosions are only disclosed after long periods. Recently, it was revealed that these detection systems had picked up the 2nd largest explosion in the entire 21st century. Oddly enough, nobody noticed this, as the meteor broke up and exploded over the Bering Sea. The meteor, which detonated 16 miles above the Bering Sea, released 173 kilotons of energy. This means that it was likely around 33 feet wide and travelling at an insane 71,600 mph. At that ridiculous speed, one could travel from New York to London in less than three minutes.

MODIS imagery of the Bering Sea fireball. (Click on image to view full animated GIF)

This makes it all the more unfortunate that nobody was around to see this incredible event. Thankfully, some satellites were able to capture some photos of the event from space. The Terra earth-observing satellite, which carries the Moderate Resolution Imaging SpectroRadiometer (MODIS), was able to detect the event with the MODIS. The images it took can be sequenced as a GIF, and are shown here. It’s frankly incredible to see a fireball like this from space, and we’re all lucky to have this opportunity.

Sources:

https://www.space.com/bering-sea-fireball-satellite-photos.html