From space, remnants of cosmic events journey through Earth’s atmosphere, surviving fiery descent to land on our planet. These extraterrestrial rocks, known as meteorites, offer a tangible connection to the solar system’s formation and the universe beyond. Discovering one represents a unique opportunity to hold a piece of cosmic history.
Identifying a Meteorite
Distinguishing a meteorite from common Earth rocks requires observing several characteristics. A fresh meteorite displays a fusion crust, a thin, dark, glassy coating formed during atmospheric entry. The crust can appear dull black or brownish, often showing flow lines. Many meteorites, particularly stony ones, exhibit small, spherical grains called chondrules.
Meteorites feel heavier than typical Earth rocks due to their higher iron and nickel content. The majority of meteorites, especially chondrite and iron types, are magnetic and will attract a strong magnet. Some meteorites may also show “regmaglypts,” which are thumbprint-like depressions on their surface, formed by ablation during atmospheric passage. These depressions are unique to meteorites.
Many common terrestrial rocks are mistaken for meteorites. Magnetic iron-rich rocks like magnetite and hematite are look-alikes, but they usually lack a fusion crust and regmaglypts. Industrial slag, a byproduct of smelting, can also be magnetic, dense, and glassy, but it often contains vesicles (small holes) from trapped gas, a feature absent in meteorites. The presence or absence of these features helps differentiate a true meteorite from a terrestrial rock.
Prime Hunting Grounds
Certain environments increase the likelihood of finding meteorites. Dry, arid regions like deserts serve as exceptional collecting grounds. Absence of dense vegetation and rapid weathering allows meteorites to accumulate on the surface, making them more visible. Dry conditions also help preserve meteorites from rust and decomposition.
Flat, open landscapes, including dry lake beds and ancient riverbeds, present favorable conditions. These locations often have a uniform background, allowing dark-colored meteorites to stand out. Agricultural fields, especially after plowing, can also yield finds as tilling brings buried objects to the surface. Examining freshly turned soil may reveal meteorites hidden for centuries.
Antarctica represents a rich scientific hunting ground for meteorites, though not accessible for public searching. Ice sheet movement concentrates meteorites in “stranding zones,” bringing them to the surface as ice ablates. The pristine, dry, and cold conditions of Antarctica preserve meteorites exceptionally well, minimizing weathering and contamination. For amateur hunters, focusing on vast, open, flat landscapes with minimal vegetation offers the best prospects.
Tools and Techniques for Finding Meteorites
A few simple tools can enhance meteorite hunting efficiency. A strong, rare-earth magnet, attached to a stick or string, is invaluable for quickly testing the magnetic properties of suspicious rocks. A geological hammer or pick can be useful for excavating potential finds. A magnifying glass helps in examining fine details like fusion crust texture or the presence of chondrules.
A GPS device or smartphone is recommended for marking the precise location of any potential discovery. This documentation is important for scientific purposes and revisiting promising areas. When searching, employing a systematic approach, such as grid searching, is effective. This involves walking parallel lines across a chosen area, ensuring thorough coverage.
Maintain a slow walking pace and constantly scan the ground to increase the probability of spotting a meteorite. Be aware of local regulations regarding land access and ownership before beginning your search. Consider safety precautions, such as carrying enough water, being mindful of local wildlife, and checking weather conditions, especially in remote or arid environments.
What to Do After a Discovery
Upon finding a suspected meteorite, careful documentation is the immediate next step. Take multiple photographs of the object in its original position, from various angles, and include a common object for scale. Record the precise GPS coordinates of the discovery site, along with a detailed description of the surrounding environment. This information is invaluable for scientific study and verifying authenticity.
Once documented, carefully collect the specimen, handling it as little as possible to avoid contamination. Do not attempt to clean the meteorite, as this can remove important scientific information like the fusion crust or adhering terrestrial material. Place the suspected meteorite in a clean, dry, inert container, such as a plastic bag or small box, to protect it. Any alteration of the sample reduces its scientific value.
The next step involves contacting experts for verification. University geology departments, natural history museums, or reputable meteorite collectors’ associations are excellent resources. They possess the expertise and equipment to analyze the specimen and confirm its extraterrestrial origin. Understanding the legal aspects of meteorite ownership is also important; meteorites found on private land generally belong to the landowner, while those on public land may have different regulations depending on the country or region.