Anomalous Sounds and Electromagnetic Effects Associated with Fireball Entry

Discussion of the nature and origin of anomalous sounds and electromagnetic effects associated with the entry of bright fireballs into the atmosphere. Descriptions of these sounds are hissing or crackling, and reports of occasional accompanying odors that may be ozone, suggest that the sound is the result of electric discharges near observers. These may be the result of perturbation of the geopotential gradient by the fireball. It is also possible that the anomalous sounds are the result of strong electromagnetic radiations from the fireball, which are transduced by natural objects, perhaps even the human ear. Included are catalogs of examples of anomalous sounds and electrical disturbances which provide the bases for many of the conclusions reached.