Residents across Massachusetts and parts of Rhode Island experienced a startling boom on Saturday afternoon, reported around 2:30 PM EDT. Initial speculation about the noise included possibilities such as an earthquake or military activity. However, meteorologists quickly analyzed satellite data and suggested that a bolide, or bright meteor, was responsible for the loud sound. Spaceflight meteorologist Nick Stewart indicated that a significant flash detected by the GOES-19 satellite did not correlate with thunderstorms, supporting the bolide theory. Additional analysis confirmed that the meteor likely entered the atmosphere near the South Shore region and exploded over the ocean, creating a shockwave that could be heard across a wide area. Experts, including WBZ-TV Chief Meteorologist Eric Fisher, received numerous reports from residents describing the boom, which was attributed to the meteor's atmospheric entry. While no official confirmation has been issued, meteorologists are increasingly confident that the phenomenon was a bolide event.