Owning a piece of the Moon is a fascinating thought, sparking curiosity about the availability of lunar samples. While directly acquiring samples brought back by space missions is generally not possible for the public, lunar material can be legally obtained under specific circumstances.
Where Do Lunar Rocks Come From?
Lunar rocks reach Earth through two pathways. The first involves samples collected by space agencies during crewed missions, notably the Apollo program. These rocks were gathered by astronauts and brought back for scientific study.
The second source comes from natural events. Asteroid impacts on the Moon eject fragments into space, some of which fall to Earth as meteorites. These lunar meteorites are random samples from various regions of the Moon’s surface, offering a broader geological perspective than Apollo samples.
The Legal Landscape of Moon Rock Ownership
Moon rock legal status depends on origin. Apollo mission samples are U.S. government property and strictly controlled. They are primarily for scientific research and educational displays, with regulations prohibiting sale or private ownership. Attempts to sell or acquire Apollo samples illegally have led to seizures and legal repercussions.
Lunar meteorites found on Earth have different legal precedents. If discovered on private land, a meteorite typically belongs to the landowner. Those found on public land may be claimed by the discoverer, depending on local laws. This makes lunar meteorites legally obtainable and tradable. The Outer Space Treaty prevents nations from claiming sovereignty over celestial bodies, but it does not explicitly prohibit ownership of materials legally brought to Earth.
Navigating the Private Market
The private market for lunar meteorites is the primary avenue for acquiring a piece of the Moon. Reputable meteorite dealers, specialized auctions, and gem and mineral shows are legitimate sources for these rare extraterrestrial specimens. Caution is important, as the market contains fraudulent or misidentified “moon rocks.”
The cost of lunar meteorites varies significantly based on factors such as size, rarity, and provenance. Smaller fragments can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars per gram, with some specimens listed for over $100 per gram. For instance, a 1.06-gram lunar meteorite might be priced around $185, while a 33.45-gram piece could reach over $8,000. Obtaining detailed provenance and certification from a recognized scientific institution is important for authenticity.
How to Identify Lunar Meteorites
Authenticating a lunar meteorite requires specialized scientific analysis, as visual inspection alone is often insufficient. Experts use techniques such as thin-section microscopy, electron microprobe analysis, and oxygen isotope analysis to compare the rock’s composition with known lunar samples. Radiometric dating can also help confirm the meteorite’s age and lunar origin.
While definitive identification requires professional analysis, some general characteristics suggest a lunar origin. Many lunar meteorites are stone meteorites, often displaying a brecciated texture, meaning they are composed of fragmented pieces cemented together. They may also contain specific minerals like plagioclase feldspar, pyroxene, olivine, and ilmenite. Unlike many other meteorites, most lunar meteorites contain little iron-nickel metal, may not be strongly attracted to a magnet, and have a density similar to Earth rocks.