Rare meteor sighting over Mount Fuji captured by CCTV shows brilliant colors, highlighting unique phenomenon in Japan’s night sky.

Rare Meteor Dazzles Over Mount Fuji

On Friday night, an extraordinary event unfolded over Japan, as CCTV footage from the Hiratsuka City Museum captured a bright meteor streaking through the sky near the iconic Mount Fuji. This rare celestial spectacle was witnessed and recorded, showing the natural wonder in vivid detail.

Capturing the Night Sky: CCTV’s Stellar Moment

Museums and observatories often keep a vigilant eye on the skies, and this time, the Hiratsuka City Museum’s observation paid off. The CCTV camera, positioned to monitor Japan’s nocturnal atmosphere, caught a glowing meteor as it descended near Mount Fuji, lighting up the night sky with an impressive display.

Why Do Meteors Glow in Different Colors?

Typically, most meteors appear white as they enter Earth’s atmosphere, but their color can shift dramatically. The color depends on the elements present in the meteor as it burns up:

• Green: Often caused by burning nickel or magnesium.
• Yellow: Associated with sodium content.
• Red: Linked to oxygen and nitrogen reacting at high altitudes.
• Blue: Indicates the presence of iron or calcium.

This unique meteor sighting over Mount Fuji offered a vivid, multi-hued display, captivating observers and science enthusiasts alike.

The Science Behind Meteor Showers

Meteors—commonly known as shooting stars—are fragments of comets or asteroids entering Earth’s atmosphere at high speed. Most disintegrate before hitting the ground, creating bright, colorful trails. Events like this serve as a reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of our planet’s night sky. For a deeper insight into meteors, visit The International Meteor Organization.

Mount Fuji: A Perfect Backdrop

Mount Fuji, with its majestic silhouette, often serves as a picturesque backdrop for astronomical events in Japan. Its cultural and natural significance heightens the impact of such rare cosmic displays. Nighttime observers frequently gather near the mountain, hoping to catch fleeting moments like this on camera.

Want to Witness More Celestial Events?

Stay updated on upcoming meteor showers and other astronomical happenings across Japan. For more information about stargazing opportunities in Japan, check our Best Places for Stargazing in Japan guide.

Watch the original source video on BBC News.