Animated history of meteor sightings

I don't know how many of these are due to population growth, colonization of the western hemisphere, and better communications and record keeping. But it sure looks like it's gotten busier than it used to be.

http://www.openculture.com/2013/05/...teorite_that_has_hit_earth_since_861_ad_.html

You pretty much nailed it. Increased population, more eyes on the sky. Better technology.

when i realized you could scroll DOWN for additional info I realized the entire page was amazing.........

snip from link ->
The primary set includes 34,842 recordings of found and fell meteorites. A meteorite is classified as fell if it has been observed by people or automated devices during its fall.
BOLIDES shows all the known fell meteorites that have not been classified as doubtful or discredited.

Dataset last updated: 6th May 2013