What ball-shaped object is lowered in New York City's Times Square at midnight on New Year's Eve?

The ball-shaped object lowered in New York City's Times Square at midnight on New Year's Eve is the Times Square Ball.

The first ball drop took place in 1907, and the tradition has continued through several designs. The current ball is a geodesic sphere covered with Waterford crystal panels and illuminated by LEDs. It is lowered from a pole atop One Times Square during the final minute of December 31.

The object is not dropped freely. It is guided downward in a controlled descent that lasts about 60 seconds, reaching the bottom at midnight. The event is accompanied by a countdown, performances, confetti, and a large crowd in Times Square.

The ball's appearance and technology have changed over time. Earlier versions used materials such as iron, wood, and incandescent bulbs, while later versions became larger and more electronically illuminated.