What is the name of the giant illuminated orb dropped at midnight in New York City's Times Square?

The giant illuminated orb dropped at midnight in New York City's Times Square is the Times Square Ball.

The Times Square Ball is lowered from One Times Square each New Year's Eve as the final seconds of the year are counted down. Its descent lasts about 60 seconds and ends at midnight, when the new year officially begins.

The object has changed substantially since the first drop in 1907. Earlier versions used materials such as iron, wood, and aluminum, while later designs incorporated crystal panels and electronic lighting. The current design is covered with Waterford crystal triangles and lit by thousands of LEDs.

The ball is sometimes incorrectly called a globe, but “Times Square Ball” is the established name. The event also includes a midnight confetti release and performances, making it one of the world's most recognizable New Year's Eve broadcasts.