Space Debris Streaks Across Taitung Sky; Locals Ask, 'Can I Make a Wish?'

A meteor-like light appeared in the sky over Taitung County last night. Live cameras along the Taitung coast and the Southern Cross-Island Highway captured the scene. While astronomical experts identified the object as space debris—likely a satellite or rocket remnant—netizens jokingly asked, "Can I make a wish on this?"

Liu Chih-an, executive director of the Taipei Astronomical Association, told Central News Agency today that the light was not a meteor but man-made space debris. Typically, man-made objects have lower brightness and slower speeds, and they disintegrate in their final stages. Meteors, unless very large, do not usually break apart upon entry.

According to the footage, the light streaked across the sky and split into two fireballs, lasting about 15 seconds.

Space debris includes spent rockets, retired satellites, and smaller fragments.

Lin Wei-ling, director of the East Coast National Scenic Area Administration, posted the video on Facebook, remarking, "Probably another rocket launch from somewhere? (We're used to it by now)."

Netizens also shared sightings on Threads, with some joking that 15 seconds is enough time to make many wishes, while others questioned whether one can actually make a wish on space junk.