Abstract:
The entry of a space body at super-orbital velocity into the Earth's atmosphere is considered. Large aerodynamic loads, the forces of inertia, and thermal flows to the body lead to the surface mass loss and to the possible mechanical failure. From observations it is known that the flight of a space body often ends with a powerful terminal flash. One of the possible assessments of energy release at the final stage of the body's destruction is proposed to confirm the opportunity of observing the effect of “thermal explosion” of a meteoroid.