Approximately how much did the grapefruit-sized Sylacauga meteorite fragment weigh?

About 8 pounds

The fragment of the Sylacauga meteorite that struck Ann Hodges on November 30, 1954, had specific physical dimensions recorded, which offer context to its impact energy. This grapefruit-sized object, which tore through the roof and struck Mrs. Hodges on her hip and thigh, was documented to weigh approximately 8 pounds. Furthermore, its size was noted to be nearly 5 inches in diameter. These measurable characteristics contrast sharply with the often massive, planet-altering impactors hypothesized in astronomical contexts, illustrating that survival from a direct strike often involves relatively small pieces of cosmic material that successfully navigate atmospheric entry and ground landing.