What's the difference between meteor, meteorite, and meteoroid? Kuya Kim explains

Meteors are one of the heavenly bodies that can be observed with the naked eye. Meteor shower forecasts and guides are available so we can enjoy the view of these "falling stars."

But do you know what's the difference between meteors, meteorites, and meteoroids?

On Wednesday's "24 Oras," Kuya Kim explained that it's all about the location: these celestial rocks are called meteoroids when they are still in space, meteors when they enter the Earth's atmosphere, and meteorites when they make it to land.

In the Philippines, five meteorites have been found: one in Pampanga (1856), one in Ilocos Sur (1910), one in Aklan (1916), one in Lanao del Norte (1938), and one in Quezon Province (1956).

Meanwhile, a man from Davao City found a rock in 2007 and he thinks it can be a meteorite.

"Hindi tinatablan ng apoy, hindi tinatablan kahit ano mang kiskis sa metal or bakal," said Allan Juntilla.

["It's not affected by fire, not affected when scratched by metal or iron."]

According to Astronomical Observation and Time Service Unit Chief Engr. Mario Raymundo, a meteorite has several characteristics that make it different from ordinary rocks.

A meteorite is denser than rocks found on Earth and these rocks cannot be scratched by a ceramic tile. Meteorites are also magnetic.

Asked if the rock found by Juntilla can be a meteorite, he said it should be sent to the University of the Philippines National Institute of Geological Sciences to be sure.

"Willing man akong ipa-test nila. May value man siya or wala magpasalamat din ako sa Panginoon," Juntilla said.

["I'm willing to have it tested. Whether it has value or not I'm still thankful to the Lord."]

—MGP, GMA News