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Help Us Explore the Skies: Report Meteorite Sightings

We invite you to be a part of an exciting journey of discovery by reporting meteorite sightings and falls. Every observation matters! Whether you witnessed a meteor streaking across the night sky or discovered an unusual rock, your report can contribute to vital research in understanding our planet and the universe.

Meteorites are rare and valuable pieces of space that give us clues about the origins of our solar system and the building blocks of life. By sharing your sightings, you play a crucial role in expanding our knowledge of these cosmic visitors.

Why Report?

  • Help scientists trace meteorite falls and recover specimens.
  • Contribute to ongoing research in geosciences and planetary studies.
  • Be a part of a global network of space enthusiasts and researchers.

Thank You for Your Contribution We deeply appreciate your curiosity and dedication to helping us explore the unknown. Your reports help unlock mysteries hidden in space, allowing for exciting discoveries and furthering our understanding of the universe.

Together, we can uncover the secrets of the skies. Thank you for being a part of this important mission!

Why report meteorite falls?

Telescopes are not effective at spotting small dark rocks moving through the atmosphere, but human eyes are very effective at just that! Your observations, photos, and videos can:
- Assist scientists in identifying meteorite falls and retrieving specimens.
- Contribute to continuous research in biological, geosciences, and planetary studies.
- Connect you with a global network of space enthusiasts and researchers.
- Bring joy to scientists!

Image of reserchers with new meteorite

I think I saw a meteorite?

Please send the description of the event and any media to:

meteorites.science@wits.ac.za

Our experts will review your media and report back as soon as possible. 

What do I do if I find a meteorite?

When reporting a meteorite fall, it's important to avoid moving or touching the meteorite. However, if there's a risk of it getting lost, damaged, or contaminated further, follow these steps:

  1. Take a GPS location or a Geo-tagged photo of the meteorite.
  2. Take photos of the fall site and the meteorite without moving it.
  3. Use aluminium foil to pick up the meteorite to keep it clean; avoid handling it with bare hands.
  4. Place the meteorite in a sealable plastic (ZipLock) bag.
  5. Gently press the air out of the bag before sealing it.

 

Do not place anything magnetic near the meteorite. This could reset important magnetic signatures that tell us about the meteorite's origins.

Is this a space rock?

Meteorites are a diverse group of rocks originating from various sources in the solar system, so they can appear slightly different depending on their origin. However, there are some key features to look for. 

  1. Their key feature is the dark fusion crust, which looks like fine black glass, while the inside may resemble a different type of rock altogether.
  2. The edges of the rock will be rounded, though the rock itself may not be round but rather have a unique pitted texture.

 

Meteorite Specimen

 

 

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