A mysterious boom rattled homes across Southeast Texas on March 21. In Spring, it left a hole in Sherrie James’ roof — and a space rock near her daughter’s bed.
Now, visitors can see the meteorite for themselves. The Houston Museum of Natural Science’s new exhibit, Fall To Earth, opens to the public Nov. 6 and is free to visit.
James told KPRC 2 that the rock came through the roof, hit the floor and landed between a television and the bed. At first, she didn’t know what had happened. A firefighter noticed the object’s unusual weight, and researchers later examined it. KPRC 2 reported back in March about James’ plans to sell the rock.
The meteorite is part of a larger event scientists are still studying. KPRC 2’s coverage of the meteor’s path and potential value reported that it entered the atmosphere at about 35,000 mph and broke apart above the Houston area. The resulting pressure wave was estimated to equal the energy of about 26 tons of TNT. The value of any recovered piece can vary widely depending on its type and composition.
Researchers have recovered 19 fragments around Houston. Rice University scientists have proposed the name “Houston” for the meteorite, though the name is pending approval by the Meteoritical Society. NASA scientists also helped reconstruct its passage through the atmosphere.
“This is one of those stories that almost seems impossible until you see it for yourself,” said Dr. Carolyn Sumners, HMNS vice president of astronomy. She said the exhibit will explore both the science and the human story behind the meteorite’s arrival.
James said she feels “blessed” the rock came to her, reflecting on its long journey through space. No one was hurt when it struck her home.
Fall To Earth will be located near the Museum Store in the museum’s Grand Entry Hall. The museum is at 5555 Hermann Park Drive. More information is available at hmns.org or by calling 713-639-4629.
