Did an asteroid hit Earth last night? Where did NASA track it to?

If you happened to be in Russia’s far eastern Yakutia region on Tuesday night and glanced up at the sky, you might have caught an unexpected cosmic show. Residents there reported a brilliant fireball lighting up the night – an asteroid blazing into Earth’s atmosphere. The big question: Did it make it to the ground, and if so, where?

NASA wasn’t alone in monitoring this asteroid’s dramatic entry. The European Space Agency (ESA) also tracked the rock, as reported by Reuters, and estimated that it was about 28 inches across – about the size of a small dining table. Spotted just 12 hours before its descent, the asteroid carried no existential threat, but it packed enough energy to grab the attention of astronomers worldwide. Yakutia’s emergency ministry had all hands on deck, though officials reported no damage on the ground.

What residents saw in Yakutia’s night sky

For people in the Olekminsk and Lensk districts, the event was impressive. Witnesses described a glowing tail streaking across the heavens, followed by a flash so vivid it briefly outshone the stars. This wasn’t your everyday shooting star but a fiery spectacle visible for hundreds of miles.

Astronomer Alan Fitzsimmons of Queen’s University in Belfast, speaking to New Scientist before the asteroid’s arrival, described it as “small but spectacular.” And he wasn’t wrong – while the asteroid’s size ruled out any apocalyptic scenarios, its atmospheric entry provided an awe-inspiring light show.

Did the asteroid hit Earth, or did it burn up?

Here’s the answer you’ve been waiting for: No, this asteroid didn’t strike the ground. Based on data from astronomers and Yakutia’s officials, it likely disintegrated while tearing through the atmosphere. Most of it would have burned up before touching down, sparing the planet from any craters or chaos. In technical terms, it was a fireball, not an impactor.

Still, its fiery descent serves as a reminder of the solar system’s constant motion - and our planet’s vulnerability to its cosmic neighbors. For now, though, Earth handled yet another rock aimed at it. Let’s hope the next one is just as harmless and equally mesmerizing.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.