What observation strongly suggests the light seen was caused by a piece of ablating extraterrestrial material?

Answer

A single, sudden, brilliant flash that vanishes quickly

A momentary, intense flash without sustained movement is the primary indicator of a small piece of space rock rapidly disintegrating upon entering the upper atmosphere.

What observation strongly suggests the light seen was caused by a piece of ablating extraterrestrial material?

#Videos

What's up with the lights in the night sky? - YouTube

lightastronomynightskyatmosphere