Meteor in Karachi Lights Up Night Sky
The meteor shower, which occurred at around 6am, was visible for several minutes, and its sighting has added to the thrill of stargazing in the city, with experts saying that such events occur regularly, drawing attention to the presence of millions of meteorites orbiting Earth.
Karachi residents witnessed a spectacular meteor shower on March 17, 2025, with meteors visible in various parts of the city, creating dazzling trails of light in the sky, a rare occurrence in Pakistan.
The meteors, known for their dramatic glow, were spotted in areas including Nazimabad, North Nazimabad, Orangi Town, and surrounding regions, with many citizens capturing the moment on their mobile phones. Videos of the event went viral on social media, leaving stargazers in awe of the natural phenomenon.
Astronomers explained that meteors are celestial objects that orbit the Sun and enter Earth's atmosphere due to gravity, causing friction and lighting up as they fall. This phenomenon is often referred to as a "shooting star" or "falling star." Astronomical experts say that such events occur when a space rock, or meteoroid, enters Earth's atmosphere and burns up, creating a bright streak of light.
According to NASA, between 100 and 300 tonnes of space debris, mostly the size of sand grains, descend on Earth daily. However, sightings of meteors are not common in Pakistan, making the event a rare occurrence. The meteorites are fragments of asteroids that ignite upon entering the Earth's atmosphere due to friction with air, creating a thrilling spectacle for stargazers.
The meteor shower in Karachi has sparked interest in astronomy and the wonders of the night sky, with many citizens taking to social media to share their experiences and photos of the event. As the city's residents look up to the stars, they are reminded of the vastness and beauty of the universe, and the thrill of witnessing a rare celestial phenomenon.