The meteor (pictured) was seen in different parts of New South Wales at around 6.30pm last night, leaving locals mystified
The meteor (pictured) was seen in different parts of New South Wales at around 6.30pm last night, leaving locals mystified
Sydney locals were left mystified after witnessing a meteor dash through the sky last night.

The meteor was seen across the city at around 6.30pm, with some lucky witnesses managing to capture incredible footage of the rare phenomenon.

Footage circulating on social media showed the fireball slowly growing larger and more visible as it streaked through the night sky.

The moment only lasted for a few seconds before the flash of light was gone.


According to 9 News, some locals also said that the meteor streaks ranged from bright orange to green.

Experts also reportedly said that the meteor could have fallen in Cooma, south of Canberra.

Two active meteor showers are an expected sighting in Australia this year - the Perseids, which will occur sometime in August, and the Geminids in December, according to the ABC.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) defines a meteor as a shooting star that leaves a visible, bright trail as it falls through the Earth's atmosphere.

It is heated to incandescence by friction, which explains its white glow.

Any leftover debris that land on Earth are called meteorites.

Scientists have estimated that approximately 48.5 tonnes of meteorite material fall on the Earth every day. When more meteors fall than usual, these are called meteor showers.