1938day.year

Pieces of a meteorite land near Chicora, Pennsylvania. The meteorite is estimated to have weighed 450 metric tons when it hit the Earth's atmosphere and exploded.

A massive meteorite exploded in Earth's atmosphere, showering fragments over Chicora, Pennsylvania and offering scientists a rare celestial sample.
On June 24, 1938, residents near Chicora, Pennsylvania, witnessed a brilliant fireball streak across the sky as a large meteorite entered Earth's atmosphere. The meteorite, estimated to weigh 450 metric tons before breakup, exploded mid-air and scattered debris over a wide area. Fragments recovered included stony meteorites that provided valuable insights into the composition of early solar system materials. Local collectors and geologists organized search parties, recovering specimens that were later studied in university laboratories. The Chicora meteorite fall remains one of the most significant meteorite events in Pennsylvania history. Samples from the event continue to be displayed in museums and referenced in scientific research on meteoritic composition and history.
1938 meteorite Chicora, Pennsylvania metric tons
2012day.year

Death of Lonesome George, the last known individual of Chelonoidis nigra abingdonii, a subspecies of the Galápagos tortoise.

Lonesome George died in 2012 as the last known Pinta Island tortoise. His passing highlighted the irreversible loss of his subspecies.
Discovered in 1971 on Pinta Island, he became a symbol of conservation efforts in the Galápagos. Despite extensive breeding programs, no viable mate was found to continue his lineage. George garnered global attention as scientists and conservationists rallied to save him. On June 24, 2012, he was found dead in his enclosure at the Charles Darwin Research Station. His death marked the extinction of Chelonoidis nigra abingdonii and underscored human impact on biodiversity. George's legacy spurred renewed efforts to protect endangered species worldwide.
2012 Lonesome George Chelonoidis nigra abingdonii Galápagos tortoise