Reports Report 6164bh (Event 6164-2019)

This report has been linked to the following event: Event 6164-2019
Observer
NameVal I
Experience Level4/5
RemarksI saw the fireball while on approach to the Auburn airport in a small aircraft. The cockpit is pretty well lit to the point where you can’t see most stars without really trying to. This object was very visible though, to the point where it even looked like another aircraft for a split second, but it quickly became obvious that it wasn’t. I was flying due north and the fireball was at my 11 o’clock, and lasted for several seconds before breaking up going out. I’ve seen many meteors and meteor showers, but this was one of the brightest and longest lasting I’ve seen in a while.
Location
AddressAuburn, AL
Latitude32° 32' 43.68'' N (32.55°)
Longitude 85° 26' 18.19'' W (-85.44°)
Elevation163.49m
Time and Duration
Local Date & Time2019-12-04 19:28 CST
UT Date & Time2019-12-05 01:28 UT
Duration≈3.5s
Direction
Moving directionFrom up left to down right
Descent Angle179°
Moving
Facing azimuth320°
First azimuth300°
First elevation40°
Last azimuth330°
Last elevation37°
Brightness and color
Stellar Magnitude-6
ColorOrange, Light Yellow
Concurrent Sound
ObservationNo
Remarks-
Delayed Sound
ObservationNo
Remarks-
Persistent train
ObservationYes
Duration10s
Length10°
RemarksGlowing smoke trail that faded after several seconds
Terminal flash
ObservationNo
Remarks-
Fragmentation
ObservationYes
RemarksFireball appeared to shed glowing fragments towards the end of its burn