FIREBALLS
Reading edition
These are virtually the same as “shooting stars” (q.v.,) and no essential difference can be pointed to, as to their origin or nature. They are not mere “blobs” of lightning, but solid bodies which sometimes burst, with a great noise—though they are usually noiseless. Many of them appear to be pear-shaped, but they may be seen to change their size and shape during the period of visibility. Fireballs are often accompanied by a train of sparks.