Resonance scattered emission of 3860 ¿ has been detected in the twilight spectrum and is attributed to the Fe atom. Observations of other metallic atoms, Mg, Ca, and their ions, are reviewed with the point of view that the observed presence of one meteoric element in a region of the atmosphere undoubtedly indicates the presence of other elements as well. It is suggested that ground-based observations of Ca and Ca+ could be used to monitor the distribution of elements of meteoric origin through the atmosphere.