What is the name of the illuminated sphere used in New York City's annual New Year's Eve countdown?

The illuminated sphere used in New York City's annual New Year's Eve countdown is the Times Square Ball.

It descends the flagpole at One Times Square during the final minute of the year. The first version appeared in 1907, inspired by maritime time balls that dropped at a precisely known hour so ships could set their chronometers. The Times Square ceremony adapted that visual idea for a public celebration.

The ball's design has evolved from a simple lighted iron-and-wood structure into a large geodesic sphere covered with Waterford crystal panels and LED lighting. Its official size and appearance have changed for major anniversaries, including the larger version introduced for the 2000 celebration. The ball is not released freely or allowed to fall to the street; it is carefully lowered along a controlled mast while the crowd counts down to midnight.