Meteorites can hit the Earth at astonishing speeds, typically ranging from 11 kilometers per second (about 25,000 miles per hour) to 72 kilometers per second (over 160,000 miles per hour).
The speed at which a meteorite travels depends on several factors, including its initial velocity as it enters the Earth’s atmosphere and the angle of entry. When meteoroids—debris from space—approach Earth, they often come barreling through the atmosphere at these high speeds. This incredible velocity results in a bright flash of light, known as a meteor or shooting star, as the object heats up due to friction with the atmosphere.
Once a meteoroid reaches the surface of the Earth, it becomes a meteorite. The high impact speed contributes to the potential for significant damage upon landing, especially if the meteorite is large. While most meteors burn up in the atmosphere, those that make it to the ground can vary in size, composition, and impact strength.
In summary, meteorites hit the Earth at speeds that can be exceptionally high, emphasizing the need for ongoing studies in planetary defense and impact risk assessment.