A possible re-entry observation
Dr.Brian Hunter (bkh@chem.QueensU.CA)
Thu, 4 Apr 1996 21:54:17 -0500 (EST)
I observed what I believe was an object re-entering the atmosphere at
01:55:45 UTC April 4, 1996. From my location, 44.25N 76.5W, the object was
north bound and burned out at about 01:55:55 near epsilon Ursa Major. I
have a several reasons to suspect a satellite re-entry rather than a
meteor.
- it was slower than the vast majority of meteors I have observed
- it was very red compared to most meteors
- many small fragments broke off and it left a long trail of reddish debris
it was more like a holiday firework than any meteor I've seen.
- the track appeared to be consistent with a close to 90 degree inclination
Anyone have any idea what it might have been?
Brian K. Hunter bkh@chem.queensu.ca
Professor of Chemistry Phone: (613)-545-2620
Queen's University Fax: (613)-545-6669
Kingston, Ontario K7L 3N6 Canada