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Tellus Science Museum in Cartersville has acquired a specimen of the falling meteorite that was seen across the Southeastern United States in June.

“Meteorite landings like this are pretty rare,â€� said Astronomy Program Manager Karisa Zdanky. “Space rocks and other debris enter EarthÐÔÊӽ紫ý atmosphere often, but they usually burn up before reaching the ground — which is the requirement to be called a meteorite. ItÐÔÊӽ紫ý uncommon to have a meteor so bright and so big that it can be witnessed in the day and produce such sizable meteorite fragments.â€�

The meteor fall, which captured national media attention — lit up skies across Georgia, Tennessee, South Carolina, and part of northern Florida on June 26. Witnesses near the fall reported a bright fireball and a loud boom.

The meteor disintegrated above Henry County, Georgia, spreading fragments across the area. One piece even hit a local home, causing minor property damage.

According to NASA, the meteor was traveling approximately 30,000 miles per hour when it entered EarthÐÔÊӽ紫ý atmosphere.

“We’re very fortunate to have this piece,â€� said Director of Curatorial Services Amy Gramsey. “A meteorite hunter found the specimen on Friday, June 27, in Henry County. ItÐÔÊӽ紫ý a 150-gram chondrite meteorite — a stony-type meteorite containing small mineral granules.â€�

It was the 29th documented meteorite fall in Georgia and only the second documented incident of a meteorite hitting a home.

The first recorded case of meteorite-related property damage in the state occurred in March 2009 in Cartersville, just a few miles from Tellus. The so-named Cartersville Meteorite is currently on display in Tellus’ Weinman Mineral Gallery.

This new specimen, which has yet to be named, will become a part of the museumÐÔÊӽ紫ý permanent mineral collection. Curatorial staff expect to have it on display for the public by the end of summer.