A Harvard professor has offered a scientific explanation for the mysterious orb of light that appeared to rise from behind a volcano after a meteor strike. The incredible footage captured a dazzling green fireball soaring behind Mount Mayon, one of the world's most active volcanoes located in the Philippines. The event took place around 10:30 pm on May 25 and was recorded by multiple cameras, according to the Philippine Information Agency.
The Phenomenon
In the footage, after the meteor struck and bright orange lava dripped down the mountain, a small bright white light was seen rising into the sky. This orb sparked speculation about a possible UFO, but theoretical physicist Avi Loeb from Harvard University dismissed such claims. 'The light coming up is most likely the glint from a satellite reflecting sunlight,' Loeb told NewsNation Prime. 'There are more than 10,000 communications satellites moving around the Earth, so it’s not very unlikely to see such a thing.'
Expert Reactions
The cosmic event has fascinated both the public and scientists. Bill Cooke, head of the Meteoroid Environments Office at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, described it as 'a gorgeous video of an unusual coincidence,' adding, 'One might even use the word wonderful.' Volcanologist Rebecca Williams from the University of Hull in England echoed this sentiment, calling it a 'juxtaposition of two of the most powerful forces in the natural world.'
Physicist Peter Brown from Western University in Canada suggested that the meteor likely vaporized in the atmosphere. 'It is possible, but not likely, this produced a meteorite. My bet, particularly given the prominent trail, would be nothing survived,' he explained.
Local Reactions
A terrified local from the nearby town of Los Baños said he 'thought it was a missile because of how bright it was.' They added, 'It burned bright green and white for less than a second before it disappeared into the clouds.'
Official Clarification
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) initially reported that the meteor struck the northern slopes of Mayon Volcano but later corrected this. After reviewing seismic, infrasound, and additional camera footage, they confirmed that the meteor disintegrated harmlessly in the atmosphere and did not strike the volcano. If it had collided, it would have left a noticeable impact.
Coincidence or Not?
While the event may seem incredibly rare, the chances of a meteor appearing over Mount Mayon during an eruption are relatively high. Mount Mayon, on the island of Luzon, is the most active volcano in the Philippines and one of the most violent worldwide. By the time the meteor appeared, the volcano had been erupting effusively for 140 consecutive days, with continuous camera coverage.
