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A 1-ton meteor exploded over Georgia, with a fragment crashing through a home in McDonough. University of Georgia geologists analyzed a piece, determining it's a 4.56-billion-year-old meteorite, predating Earth by 20 million years. The meteorite, classified as a low-metal ordinary chondrite, entered the atmosphere at cosmic velocity, creating sonic booms. Researchers believe it originated from an asteroid breakup 470 million years ago. This is the 27th meteorite recovered in Georgia, highlighting increasing frequency due to advanced technology and public awareness. Further analysis will help assess future asteroid impact threats.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.